A man has been jailed for 17 years in relation to historic child sex offences in Chorlton

Martin Thorley (01/03/1976) of Broomville Avenue, Sale was today (Tuesday 23 November) sentenced to 17 years in jail at Manchester Crown Square Court after he was found guilty of five counts of child sex offences including oral rape as well as multiple occasions of rape and digital penetration.

Thorley started to abuse his victim when he was a teenager and she was aged only four years old. Thorley would take his victim away from any adults who were present before sexually abusing the young girl. This abuse continued for around seven years.

Detective Constable Dawn Berry, from GMP's City of Manchester division, said: "This kind of abuse has a devastating effect on the victims, casting shade over their childhood and creating mental trauma which stays with them throughout their lifetime.

"Thorley is a paedophile who exploited a young girl for his own sexual gratification. His behaviour is despicable and I can only hope this sentence brings some sense of retribution to his victim who had to suffer the consequences of his deplorable actions."

"GMP will do their absolute utmost to thoroughly investigate all reports of this type of crime and would always encourage victims to speak to us."

Greater Manchester is nationally recognised as a model of good practice in terms of support services available to victims.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to boys and men in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.