A MAN from Ulverston has been jailed for 20 years for child sex offences.

Paul Davies, 54, of no fixed abode and formerly of Ulverston, was sentenced on Wednesday at Preston Crown Court.

He received an indeterminate sentence of 20 years in prison and a further five years on an extended license. 

Davies had pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexual assault against a girl under the age of 13 and four counts of causing/inciting a girl under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity. 

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of rape of a child under the age of 13.

The offences took place between February 2014 and April 2015. 

Davies was arrested in April 2015 when police were notified of him being caught attacking his victim.

He will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Offender Prevention Order and has been ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register.

Detective Sergeant Fae Dilks said: “This is one of the most shocking cases of prolonged sexual abuse that I have come across.

“Davies preyed on the innocence of a child and made her do things which she did not fully understand. 

"He made his victim feel so frightened and embarrassed that she could not disclose what was happening to her.

“This was an evil and prolonged case of abuse and our thoughts are with the victim who was subjected to a terrifying ordeal.

“I would like to take this opportunity to praise the victim for her bravery when being questioned. 

"I hope that she can now go on and live her life in the knowledge that the man who abused her is in prison.

“There is no excuse for his unthinkable actions and I am glad that Davies is now facing significant prison for his crimes, the length of which signifies the judge’s view of this depraved offending.

“I would also like to take this opportunity urge anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward and report it to police. 

"A victim can be reassured that their case will be investigated professionally and sensitively."