Milkman jailed for child abuse

A milkman is starting a nine and a half year jail term for abusing young boys.

David Sparks from Wirral was sentenced on Monday after he admitted 20 sex offences dating back to 1972.

Philip Astbury, prosecuting, told how Sparks also exploited and abused his position as a milkman by offering his victims jobs and cash.

"The grooming behaviour of the defendant ordinarily involved an introduction to pornographic material, the giving of gifts or money and the provision of alcohol in return for sexual favours," he said.

"Another recurring feature was his long-standing employment as a milkman.

"That enabled him to provide casual work to those who he sought to abuse, thereby winning their friendship and, on occasions, providing an excuse for boys to stay with him overnight."

61-year-old Sparks, of Keswick Road, Wallasey, pleaded guilty to 20 offences between 1972 and 2001.

Jailing him, Judge David Harris QC said:

"Your offending behaviour was grave, highly-damaging to your victims and disgraceful."