• 30 years in jail for Lincolnshire child rapist who had at least 14 victims over two decades

A child rapist has been sentenced to 30 years behind bars after being found guilty of 45 offences against 14 young victims between 1992 and 2011.

Andrew Mark Ditchfield, 54, continued to plead not guilty and deny any wrong-doing but was found guilty of all charges in August.

The court was told the offences started in 1992 in Derby when Andrew Mark Ditchfield started targeting young people. He then moved to Lincolnshire in the early 2000s where he continued targeting young people.

In November 2020, Ditchfield was finally arrested at his home in Forways, Tetney, Grimsby.

The trial at Debry Crown Court lasted two months, where the 14 victims, which includes 12 boys, and 2 girls bravely gave evidence against their abuser.

Andrew Mark Ditchfield appeared at Derby Crown Court on October 15, where he was told he would spend at least 30 years in prison.

DS Ritchie Parkins, who led the investigation team, said: “That Ditchfield is now behind bars is because of the strength, character and resilience of the survivors of his abuse.

“His refusal to take any responsibility for the damage he wrought on these young people’s lives shows his utter disregard for anyone other than himself.

“To stand in court and give evidence against this man who has caused such hurt is humbling and I cannot speak highly enough of them.”

“I don’t work. I have money problems and I struggle to leave the house and I have made many attempts to end my life.”