A PAEDOPHILE has been jailed for raping and abusing children in Cumnock over 42-years.

Bryan Grimes, 58, was found guilty of committing horrific attacks on children all under 16 in the Anstruther, Methil, Leven, and Cumnock areas between 1975 and 2017.

At the High Court in Glasgow, Bryan Grimes was also placed on the sex offenders register for life and sentenced to six years in prison following his conviction on 14th November 2018.

He was also slapped with a Order for Lifelong Restriction which is not imposed for the crime committed but for the risk that the individual is assessed to present to the public.

At a trial in Livingston High Court last year, the 58-year-old was found guilty of nine charges of physical and sexual abuse, including rape, against children.

Grimes was the subject of an investigation by Police Scotland’s National Child Abuse Investigation Unit after officers from the Public Protection Unit in Fife began inquiries into him in October 2017.

Detective Inspector Craig Watson from the National Child Abuse Investigation Unit said: “We welcome the sentencing today of Bryan Grimes who will now face the consequences of his appalling crimes.

“Due to the risk he poses to the public, Grimes received an Order for Life Long Restriction, which means he will only be released at the end of the sentence when authorities are completely satisfied that he is safe to do so.

“In all cases of child abuse, Police Scotland will always conduct a thorough and robust investigation, no matter how long ago the crimes occurred.

“I’d like to thank the bravery for the victims for firstly coming forward and reporting the actions of Grimes that allowed our investigations, and secondly for their strength and courage throughout the trial process. I hope today’s sentence will allow them to begin to move forward with their lives.”

If you have any concerns or information about child abuse then these can be reported to Police Scotland on 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.