Jailed: Ex-school caretaker from Shrewsbury who tore family apart after sexually abusing girl

Eric Darby, who held the job at the school for 10 years, had denied four offences of sexual assault on a child under 13.

But the retired 74-year-old was found guilty by a jury yesterday.

Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard how Darby's "considerable time" at the school had made him into a well-liked local figure.

The abuse, which took place in May last year, did not happen at the school.

The mother of Darby's victim told the court how family life had been torn apart since the abuse – once enjoyable family outings no longer take place because the youngster does not wants to go out.

She said: "We can never get back what we have lost. Our children will never be the same as before.

"The man who did this to my baby girl has shown no remorse. I hope he never gets the chance to ruin anyone's life."

Once released from prison, Darby, who had been living in Shrewsbury before he was sentenced, must not return to the area where his victim lived under the condition of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

He will also need the approval of Staffordshire Police's chief constable or Staffordshire social services to meet any children under 16.

He must not visit or loiter near playgrounds, swimming pools or areas where children might be.

Mr Kevin Saunders, for Darby, said "there is a very real risk that this defendant could die in prison," which was "a natural consequence" of his offending.

Mr Saunders added: "By virtue of this conviction any good this defendant was worth will always be viewed with cynicism."

Judge David Fletcher, addressing Darby, said: "You were clearly liked by staff and children at that school.

"I accept there are a number of areas of other punishment – the shame, that you can never return to your home that has been your home for many years."

The judge continued: "Your age works in two different ways.

"It is crystal clear that the behaviour and events of the last two years has left this family completely shattered and an impact on the child, which it will take a long time, if ever, to get over."

An NSPCC spokesman said: "It is disturbing that someone trusted to work around children every day would commit these vile offences.

"As the court heard, abuse of this kind can have a horrific impact not only on the victim, but also their family as they try to come to terms with what happened.

"But this case shows that victims of abuse can speak out in the knowledge they will be taken seriously.

"They can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000, text 88858 or email help@nspcc.org.uk."