A MAN who sexually abused a child on numerous occasions has been put behind bars.

David Taylor, of Victor Road, Cwmtillery, Abertillery, appeared before Newport Crown Court yesterday after pleading guilty to 11 counts of sexual activity with a child.

The court heard that Taylor had abused his victim, who cannot be named, over a number of years.

Prosecution lawyer Alison O’Shea said: “The defendant is of 66 years of age and of previous good character.

“The matter came to light last year.”

She added: “Mr Taylor, to his credit, admitted the conduct.”

Mitigating, defence lawyer Matthew Roberts said: “The primary mitigation is the guilty plea.

“He realises now that he is 100 per cent wrong in this case.

“He is well aware of his position.”

Judge Neil Bidder said that the sexual abuse committed by Taylor had caused a “very substantial effect” on the victim, saying: “I have to sentence you for 11 offences of sexual offences with a child under 16.

“You abused [the victim] sexually on numerous occasions.

“The victim has needed counselling.

“The abuse, as expected, has had a very substantial effect on [the victim].

Taylor was sentenced to six years in prison, placed on the sex offenders’ register indefinitely and ordered to pay a £175 surcharge.