MALCOLM DOLING EX-MAYOR OF SOUTHBOROUGH AND CRAWLEY JAILED FOR ABUSING SCHOOLGIRLS IN EASTBOURNE AND SOUTHBOROUGH

In a disturbing case that has shocked communities across Crawley, Eastbourne, and Southborough, Malcolm Doling, a former deputy mayor of Tunbridge Wells and ex-mayor of Southborough, has been sentenced to four years in prison for the sexual abuse of two young girls. Doling, who also spent time living in Eastbourne, exploited his social standing and reputation to gain the trust of families before committing heinous acts of abuse.

During the court proceedings at Lewes Crown Court last week, a packed gallery of Doling’s family members and supporters of the victims listened intently as details of his crimes were revealed. The court heard how Doling, now aged 66, had used his charm and societal influence to befriend families, even holidaying with them, which allowed him to approach vulnerable children under the guise of friendliness and trust.

One of the victims, who has since become a mother of two, recounted her traumatic experience in an exclusive interview with the Courier. She described Doling as someone who would always hold doors open for women, presenting himself as a charismatic and courteous individual. However, beneath this facade, he preyed on her during her childhood, when she was between 8 and 11 years old, while she was babysitting for him. She recalled the chilling moments when he told her to “make him happy,” and how she later struggled with self-harm, pulling out her eyelashes and eyebrows as she grappled with the emotional scars of her abuse.

The second victim, who did not know the first, bravely confronted Doling at a family funeral in 2004, which led to a heated argument. She was abused at her grandmother’s house and at a beach when she was around 11 years old. Her testimony highlighted how Doling’s respected societal position had been a significant barrier to revealing the truth earlier, as she felt intimidated by his reputation.

Prosecutor Michael Warren detailed that Doling admitted to four indecent assaults, which took place in Crawley between 1977 and 1983, and around 1990. The court was told that Doling had become close to the families of the victims, even sharing holidays with them, which made his betrayal even more devastating.

In his defense, Julian Dale, representing Doling who had been residing in Eastbourne, argued that his client was of “good character” prior to these allegations. He emphasized that any imprisonment would impose severe financial hardship on Doling, who was already burdened with substantial debts. Dale also acknowledged the emotional turmoil caused within Doling’s family by the case.

Judge Guy Anthony sentenced Doling to four years in prison, taking into account the legal standards applicable at the time of the offenses. Additionally, Doling was issued an indefinite sex offender’s prevention order to restrict his future activities and protect the community.

As the court proceedings concluded, the victims and their supporters sat visibly distressed in the public gallery, alongside Doling’s family members. The case has left a lasting impact on the communities of Crawley, Eastbourne, and Southborough, raising ongoing concerns about safeguarding and the abuse of trust by individuals in positions of societal influence.

For a comprehensive interview with Doling’s victims, turn to page nine of the publication.