JUSTIN WIDDOP FROM COLNE SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF 11-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN COAL PIT LANE

In a disturbing case that shocked the community of Colne, Justin Widdop, aged 27, was convicted of heinous sexual offenses involving a young girl. The incident took place in June of an unspecified year, in a secluded lane known as Coal Pit Lane, situated on the old road connecting Colne and Trawden. Widdop, who resided on Byron Road in Colne, was found guilty of raping an 11-year-old girl and also of abducting her, following a trial at Burnley Crown Court.

According to court records, the young victim had been in the company of Widdop after they met at the Derby Arms pub. At the time, the girl was dressed in her primary school uniform, highlighting her young age and innocence. After leaving the pub together, they proceeded through the town center of Colne, walking along Carry Lane, before the assault occurred in the isolated area of Coal Pit Lane. The attack was only interrupted when a vigilant woman, out for a jog with her dog, happened to pass by and noticed what was happening. Recognizing the danger, she challenged Widdop, effectively stopping the assault and potentially saving the girl from further harm.

Investigations quickly followed, and forensic evidence collected from the scene linked Widdop directly to the crime. The case drew widespread condemnation, with DS Steve Holgate from Nelson CID describing the incident as “sickening” and emphasizing the horror of an adult leading an innocent child away for such a serious sexual assault. He praised the quick-thinking jogger for her intervention, calling her actions “special praise” and noting that incidents of this nature are exceedingly rare in the area.

Widdop, who was identified by police as an unemployed alcoholic, was sentenced to seven years in prison. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and was prohibited from working with children in any capacity. Following his release in January 2014, Widdop returned to live in Colne, raising concerns among local residents about his presence in the community. His case remains a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and community involvement in protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory offenders.