'I can't understand why... he's taken away their childhood'

The relative of a child abused by a 'depraved' paedophile has described his sickening actions as 'unforgiveable'. Thomas Noone, 33, 'preyed on young girls', police said.

He was jailed for 10-and-a-half years on Monday (November 18) after being found guilty of two counts of sexual assault by penetration against a minor; and one count of sexual assault against an adult.

Noone, from Stretford, was caught after the relative of one victim went to the police. A second victim then came forward and told police she too had been sexually assaulted.

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Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, the relative said the child was 'having nightmares, adding: "I was angry and upset. I just can't understand why anybody would want to hurt a child."

The relative later discovered Noone had previously been convicted of a similar offence. In 2016, he was jailed for three years and ordered to sign the sex offender register indefinitely after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a female under 13.

The relative said the abuse the child endured has had a devastating impact, saying Noone has 'taken away their childhood'. They added: "When I think about it, I feel numb. I think 'did I let [them] down?'.

"What he has done is unforgivable. I just thank God that [they] were brave enough to come forward. We are still trying to comprehend what has happened. It's one thing I thought I would never have to think about. I'm relieved it's over in one way, but it's not over for [them]."

When interviewed by detectives, Noone denied sexually assaulting both victims. During trial, he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, but was later found guilty by a jury.

Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Detective Sergeant Louise Haslam, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "The acts Mr Noone committed here are nothing short of depraved. He preyed on young girls and exploited their vulnerability due to their age and never took responsibility for his actions, which highlights even more how courageous the victims were to come forward.

"What they have been through is something no-one should ever experience, and the fact they have remained so strong throughout this investigation and court process should be commended.

"As a force we are here to always listen to victims and give them a voice when they are ready. We have a committed team of detectives and staff who are focused on helping these young women so they can rebuild their lives.

"Noone will now spend more time behind bars and as a result the streets are a safer place without him. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse to please contact us when you are ready, so that we can listen to you and make sure that you are protected at the earliest opportunity."