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A man has been given a life sentence for sexually abusing four girls.

Robert Yeomans, 60, of Near Vallens, Hadley, in Telford, was found guilty of 41 counts involving children after a trial at Shrewsbury Crown Court.

He was told he would serve a minimum term of 16 years and eight months in prison.

West Mercia Police said the victims were aged between three and 11 at the time of the offences.

The charges included sexual assault by touching, possessing indecent images of children, sexual activity with a child and rape.

Shrewsbury Crown Court heard he carried out the crimes between 2004 and 2019.

Det Con Stuart Bott said the judge described Yeomans as "a dangerous offender who has a long-standing sexual interest in children".

Another West Mercia Police officer, Det Con Nenagh Brady, added: "Today’s sentencing will mean he can no longer prey on young and vulnerable people.

"I hope if anything positive is to come out of today is that it gives other victims the confidence to come forward and speak with the police."

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