Disgraced Youth Club Leader Faces Prison Sentence

John Wiltshire, a former youth club leader who was once recognized for his work with young people, is now facing a prison sentence after admitting to a series of sex crimes against a young girl.

The 64-year-old pleaded guilty to 10 offenses, including sexual activity with a child under 16, in Winchester Crown Court on June 25. These offenses took place over a two-and-a-half-year period.

Wiltshire also confessed to creating more than 6,000 indecent images of children, which were discovered on his computer, laptop, and USB memory stick.

Wiltshire was a founding member of the Whitchurch Youth Project, established in 2005 for young people in the town. In 2008, he received a community award for his work with the youth initiative and the Chill 2 This club he ran, which catered to children aged 10 to 14.

He resigned from his leadership position at the youth club on April 5, 2023, following the allegations. A new leader has since been appointed.

In court, Wiltshire denied one charge of sexual assault and two counts of sexual activity with a child. However, these pleas were accepted by the prosecution.

Wiltshire's sentencing has been postponed until July 13 while pre-sentence reports are prepared. He remains in custody until his next court appearance.

Judge Jane Miller stated that a substantial custodial sentence is inevitable, with the question being the duration of the sentence.