Former pub manager Mark Smith sentenced to eight years in prison for sexual abuse of a schoolgirl.

Smith, 52, who previously ran The Black Horse in Chesterton, was found guilty of nine charges of sexual assault and assault by penetration by a jury at his trial earlier this month.

The court heard that Smith, of Lincoln Road, Cobridge, had engaged in various forms of sexual abuse against the teenager, including grabbing her breasts and thighs, kissing her, and touching her breasts and bottom. He also exposed himself to his victim and made explicit threats about having sex with her.

The abuse took place at various locations, including a park and building described as "creepy old."

The victim, who has been profoundly impacted by the abuse, stated: "I am constantly looking over my shoulder to see where he is. This is not my fault. It is all his."

During sentencing, Recorder Anthony Warner addressed Smith, stating: "You threatened her and told her she would not be believed. Your threats worked as she never told anyone at all about what you were doing."

Smith will be subject to the Sex Offenders' Register and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) indefinitely. He must serve two-thirds of his prison sentence before being eligible for release.