HAROLD RATCLIFFE SENTENCED IN BOLTON FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN BROWNLOW FOLD

In a case that has spanned decades, Harold Ratcliffe, a 67-year-old man from Westworth Close in Brownlow Fold, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious charges related to the sexual abuse of young girls. The conviction was the culmination of a five-day trial held in April at Bolton Crown Court, where the court heard disturbing details of Ratcliffe's predatory behavior spanning over thirty years.

Ratcliffe was convicted of several offenses, including indecency with a child, sexual assault of a minor, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and indecent assault. The first known incident occurred in the mid-1970s when he targeted a girl who was approximately eight or nine years old. These offenses remained hidden for decades until 2006, when another girl, then aged seven, came forward with allegations that Ratcliffe had been 'dirty' with her. This revelation prompted further investigation, ultimately leading to his arrest and subsequent trial.

During the court proceedings, Judge Timothy Clayson acknowledged that Ratcliffe, who is currently in poor health and cares for a disabled partner, had previously maintained a reputation of good character. However, the judge emphasized the profound and lasting impact of Ratcliffe’s abuse on his older victim, describing it as having a 'very considerable' effect. The judge also expressed concern about the potential long-term consequences for the younger girl, whose trauma remains difficult to fully assess at this stage.

Judge Clayson was critical of Ratcliffe’s attitude, stating that he had shown no remorse for his actions. The court sentenced him to four years in prison, with half of that time to be served on license. Additionally, Ratcliffe will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. As he was led away from the dock to begin his sentence, Ratcliffe was seen giving a thumbs-up to supporters in the public gallery, a gesture that drew mixed reactions.

Following the sentencing, the eldest victim, who was present in court to witness the proceedings, expressed her relief and satisfaction with the outcome. She stated, 'I felt relief when he was found guilty. I am glad he has been made to be answerable for what he has done.' Her decision to come forward was driven by her discovery that Ratcliffe had also abused another child, which prompted her to break her silence after thirty years.

Reflecting on her experience, she shared, 'I thought ‘This is it.’ We have got to stop this.' She also admitted to feeling anger at herself for not speaking out sooner. Now, she feels a sense of closure and hopes to move forward with her life, finally free from the shadow of the abuse she endured for so many years.