THE detective who continued to fight for justice for Scott Webb's victims has praised them for their bravery and resilience.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Joseph from Barrow CID stood firmly behind the two victims and threw her support behind their bid for a review when the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) initially decided to take no further action and deemed that there was not sufficient evidence to guarantee a realistic prospect of a conviction back.

Thanks to the determination of the victims, and with DS Joseph's backing, the family appealed against the decision under the Victims' Right to Review Scheme and in 2017 the CPS overturned their original decision.

Webb was charged with four counts of sexual assault on a girl under 13 and two charges of assault by penetration on two girls under 13.

DS Joseph revealed in police interview Webb denied carrying out the offences.

He finally pleaded guilty to all offences in February just before a trial was due to start.

“I am so pleased these victims have received justice," the detective said after the sentencing.

“The bravery, resilience and determination they have shown throughout this complex four year investigation has been exceptional.

“I hope this sentencing will help to provide both victims with a resolve to move on from this horrific chapter of their lives.

“It was through the ongoing commitment to justice of the victims and the officers who investigated this that this dangerous man has been taken off of the streets."