The NSPCC has condemned the 'shocking betrayal of trust' by a paedophile who has been jailed for sexually abusing a young boy at a Lewisham children's home.

Arthur Hatton, 88, was sentenced to 16 years after being found guilty of historic sex offences while he was employed as the supetintendent of two children's homes in the borough.

Between 1975 and 1982 Hatton, of Odell Walk, Lewisham, repeatedly abused his young victim who was assaulted for nine years from the age of six and 15.

The NSPCC said victims of sexual abuse need significant support to rebuild their lives.

A spokesman for the children's charity said: "This case highlights the shocking betrayal of trust by someone responsible for the care of children.

“Hatton’s victim was in a place where he should have been cared for but instead was subjected to years of abuse."

He added: "Up and down the country offenders are being called to account for what they have done, sometimes decades after their crimes took place."

The NSPCC provides support through a helpline on 0808 800 5000 and young people can contact ChildLine 24 hours a day on 0800 1111.

Hatton was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault on a boy under 16, four counts of buggery with a boy under 16, and four counts of gross indecency with a boy under 14.

He was charged with offences in connection with four further victims.

The jury found him not guilty of six indecent assaults in relation to one victim and failed to return a verdict on three counts of indecent assault in connection with three other victims.