GEORGE FORD'S SHOCKING RETURN NEAR CORNISH SCHOOL AFTER TROWBRIDGE ABUSE SCANDAL

In a disturbing development, convicted sex offender George Ford, aged 79, has been released from custody and now resides in close proximity to a specialized educational institution in St. Blazey, Cornwall. This move has raised serious concerns among local residents and the families of vulnerable children, especially given Ford's criminal history involving the abuse of his own daughters.

Ford’s criminal record is deeply troubling. He was convicted of 20 separate sex offences committed against his two daughters, with the abuse spanning over a period of 13 years until they reached the ages of 16 and 19. Despite the severity of his crimes, Ford was released from prison in June under a supervision order that is set to last for two years. As part of his release conditions, he was required to register as a sex offender and was permitted to relocate approximately 200 miles from Trowbridge in Wiltshire to St. Blazey, a small town in Cornwall.

The address where Ford now resides is believed to be that of a relative. It is situated directly opposite the Doubletrees School, a facility that caters to children aged between two and 19 with severe learning difficulties. This proximity has alarmed many, especially considering Ford’s past and the fact that his own daughters have publicly expressed their fears about his potential danger to children.

Both daughters, who have chosen to waive their right to anonymity, have voiced their outrage and concern. Teresa Hornblow, 53, stated, “Until he takes his last breath I think he will be a danger. We don’t want him near little ones. I believe he represents a danger to little ones. He is a paedophile and I don’t think he is going to change.” Her sister, Elaine Reader, 48, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of public awareness. “I want this to be a warning to parents. Age doesn’t make a difference. The fact he was given two years probation makes a farce of it.”

For years, the sisters endured silent suffering before finally coming forward to report their abuse to the authorities. Their disclosures prompted police investigations and subsequent legal proceedings. The probation service has confirmed that the local school has been informed of Ford’s presence in the community.

Ian Clewlow, who is the director of operations for the Devon and Cornwall Probation Area and also chairs the local public protection agency (MAPPA), assured the public that measures are being taken to assess and manage the risks associated with Ford. He explained, “We are working with police and children’s services to ensure that the risks presented by Mr. Ford are assessed and managed as extensively as possible. There are certain actions that can be taken to protect any child in contact with Mr. Ford, and all of these will be done.”

Clewlow further emphasized that offenders monitored under MAPPA are generally not repeat offenders, stating that 99.6 percent do not commit further serious crimes. He also noted that police regularly visit the homes of offenders and that they are required to notify authorities if they change their address.

As of yesterday, Ford’s new residence remained under close observation, with the curtains drawn tightly and no response at his door, indicating a possible attempt to avoid contact or scrutiny. The community continues to grapple with the unsettling reality of Ford’s return, raising ongoing questions about public safety and the adequacy of supervision measures for offenders with such a history.