A “predatory paedophile” who raped a teenage boy and indecently assaulted three other children has been jailed for 21 years.

Trevor Franklin, 61, of Mayplace Road East, Bexleyheath, was convicted of 11 charges of historical child sexual abuse after a three-week trial at Inner London Crown Court.

They were two charges of rape of a boy under the age of 16; eight charges of indecent assault against boys under the age of 16; and one charge of attempting to indecently assault a boy under the age of 16.

He was found not guilty of three indecent assaults of boys aged under 16 years old.

Police officers began an investigation in early 2015 after one of the victims told an officer at Surrey Police about the sexual abuse he had suffered.

Three of the boys came into contact with Franklin through the use of CB radios.

The victims all described how Franklin, who was aged in his late 20s and 30s at the time, befriended them and invited them to his home. He also took the boys on trips in his car and gave them alcohol and cigarettes.

The offences happened between 1985 and 1993 and involved boys aged between 11 and 15 years old.

PC Luke Pressling said: “Franklin is a predatory paedophile who abused the trust of four boys he had befriended.

"I would like to commend the courage of the four men who reported the offences to police and gave evidence in court.

"Although no prison sentence can ever make up for the physical and psychological damage caused by the appalling abuse they suffered, I hope the long sentence given to Franklin gives them some form of closure.

"This case highlights that, no matter the length of time that has passed, the public should feel reassured that we will thoroughly investigate all historic sexual offences and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice."

Anyone who has been the victim of sexual assault should contact their local police force, or call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.