'Victim has shown incredible bravery' - NSPCC welcomes jail sentence for former scout leader from Shrewsbury

John Parrish, 70, admitted four charges of indecent assault.

Parrish, of Castle Gates, Shrewsbury, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court.

He was arrested after his victim came forward after more than 45 years.

The NSPCC today said the case showed victims that they can find justice, no matter how long

Charity spokesman Adam Burling said: “Parrish exploited his position to sexually abuse a vulnerable child who had placed his trust in him.

“His victim has shown incredible bravery in coming forward and it’s this decision that has finally brought Parrish to justice.

“To speak out about child sexual abuse takes a huge amount of courage and it is vital that victims are listened to – no matter how much time has passed.”

The court heard that the former scout leader sexually abused a boy in the toilet during meetings while whispering “be quiet”.

The victim only reported the abuse, which happened nearly every week between 1966 and 1970 in Salford, in January 2015 when his grandson had asked to join the Scouts.

He told police he had been regularly abused by Parrish between the ages of seven and 11, and that he felt obliged to come forward in case Parrish was still alive and abusing children.

Learning of his grandson’s interest in joining the Scouts also contributed to his decision to report his abuser.

Greater Manchester Police echoed the comments by the NSPCC and urged others in a similar position to come forward.

Detective constable Cathy Blain said: “I have nothing but praise for the man who so courageously came forward and reported the abuse.

“Parrish abused his position of trust in the worst possible way and my only hope is that the prosecution brings some closure after he has suffered in silence for more than 50 years.”