Cleveleys OAP admits abuse on young children dating back almost 50 years

Andrew Garry Catlin, 72, of Jem Gate, Cleveleys, was assisted by his barrister to enter his pleas at Preston Crown Court.

The married dad-of-four, who reportedly ran a local business, admits five specimen counts of indecently assaulting a youngster on at least three occasions.

The charges cover a period dating from 1969 into the 1970s.

Catlin, who has four grandchildren, also admits eight charges of indecent assault in relation to a second girl.

Julie Taylor, defending, asked for permission to stand with him as he entered his pleas, adding: "He is rather nervous and want to make sure he pleads to the correct counts."

The children were aged as young as seven and five at the time of the offences.

He entered a string of not guilty pleas to allegations he had assaulted the first girl in a swimming pool and a bathroom, which were accepted by the court.

After entering his pleas, Catlin, who wore a dark coat, dabbed his eyes with a hanky and sat down in the dock.

Judge Sara Dodd adjourned his sentencing until April 10 to allow a pre sentence report to be prepared.

She added: "Between now and then you may have bail but there will be conditions.

"The fact I'm adjourning the case and giving you bail is no indication of the sentence that is going to be passed. You have been informed a significant custodial sentence is inevitable in this case."