Indecently assaulted three children in the 1980s and 1990s.

David Spence, a "predatory paedophile," was sentenced to 10.5 years in prison for indecently assaulting three children in the 1980s and 1990s.

Spence, 67, committed these crimes in the Spennymoor area, leaving his victims, now adults, struggling with mental health issues. His crimes went undetected for decades.

Despite being confronted by the police with the allegations for a second time, Spence maintained his innocence until the day of his trial, when he finally admitted guilt.

In a victim impact statement, one of the survivors shared the devastating impact of Spence's actions, revealing they have suffered from low self-esteem, night terrors, panic attacks, and paranoia.

In addition to his prison sentence, Spence was given a 12-month extended license and subjected to a restraining order and a sexual harm prevention order, both of which will be in place until further notice. He was also placed on the sex offenders' register.