COLIN GREGG FROM GOSFORTH SENTENCED TO 13.5 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN NEWCASTLE

In a case that has shocked the local community and brought to light the disturbing abuse committed by a once-respected figure, Colin Gregg, a man with deep ties to Gosforth and Newcastle, was sentenced to 13 and a half years in prison for sexually abusing young boys over several decades.

Gregg, aged 75, was found guilty of nine counts of indecent assault against four victims, with the abuse spanning from the early 1960s through the 1990s. The court heard harrowing details of how Gregg, who was once a prominent head teacher, used his positions of trust to prey on boys aged between 11 and 14. His victims recounted being assaulted in various locations, including a swimming pool, his home gym, and a sauna, revealing the calculated and predatory nature of his crimes.

The court proceedings took place at Newcastle Crown Court, where Judge Robin Mairs delivered a stern sentence, emphasizing the severity and lasting impact of Gregg’s actions. As Gregg stood motionless in the dock, the judge sentenced him to serve a minimum of 13 and a half years before he can even consider applying for parole. Given his age, he will be 82 by the time he is eligible for release on licence.

Throughout the trial, Gregg maintained his innocence, claiming he was the victim of a police witch-hunt and alleging that the complainants sought compensation. Despite his denials, the jury at Leeds Crown Court found him guilty of the charges earlier this month after a lengthy trial that followed a previous failed attempt at a verdict in Newcastle. Gregg showed no visible emotion as the verdicts were read, and he left the courtroom quietly, offering no apology to his victims.

The court was told that Gregg exploited his reputation as a charismatic and inspiring teacher, using his respected status as a shield to conceal his predatory behavior. His background included roles as a headteacher at The King’s School Junior in Tynemouth, a teacher at Durham School, and a social worker in Newcastle. He was also involved in charitable work, raising millions for children’s charities, which made his crimes all the more shocking to the community.

Judge Mairs condemned Gregg’s actions, stating, “The damage you caused will last and has lasted much longer than any sentence I can impose on you. You were trusted with the care of young boys and repeatedly abused that trust in the most horrendous fashion. The impact on them is lifelong.” The judge further described Gregg as a “sophisticated, predatory paedophile,” highlighting the calculated nature of his offenses and his lack of remorse. Gregg’s contempt for his victims was evident, as he refused to show any remorse or conscience for his actions.

In addition to his prison sentence, Gregg has been ordered to register as a sex offender for life and is barred from working with children in the future. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of his crimes and the community’s need for justice and protection from such predators. The case has left a lasting scar on the victims and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding in society.