A child rapist who sexually assaulted four young girls over a seven-year period has been jailed for more than 20 years.

Paedophile James Barrett, 65, of Louvain Road in Greenhithe, was found guilty of 19 charges including rape, sex assault, sexual activity with a child and causing a child to watch a sexual act.

Barrett's abuse took place at his home, and at an address in Bexley. Victims were under 13 years old.

Detective Constable Marie Hill, from the Met Police's child abuse and sexual offences command, said: "I would like to thank the brave victims for coming forward and pursuing this case.

"This lengthy sentence demonstrates the destructive path this defendant created for these victims and I hope it brings them some closure."

The victims first contacted police on May 29, and Barrett was arrested and charged the next day.

He was found guilty after a five-day trial at Woolwich Crown Court and jailed for 24 years.

Detective Sergeant Jivan Saib said: "I hope this conviction for historical offences demonstrates how hard the Met will work to bring justice for victims of sexual offences. I hope this encourages all victims of sexual abuse crimes to come forward."