MARK HEDDON FROM GREAT AYTON AND THIRSK FOUND GUILTY OF SEXUAL ACTIVITY WITH A CHILD NEAR NORTH YORKSHIRE PETTING FARM

Mark Hebdon, the former proprietor of a well-known petting farm in North Yorkshire, has been convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a minor. Hebdon, who previously owned and managed Monk Park Farm located near Thirsk, faced serious allegations that culminated in a court trial. Despite his denial of three separate charges of sexual activity involving a teenage girl, the jury at Teesside Crown Court found him guilty of one count after a trial that lasted an entire week.

During the proceedings, the court reviewed a police interview with the victim, who is legally protected from being identified. The victim recounted that Hebdon, who resides on John Street in Great Ayton, had bought her an iPhone and provided her with money. She also revealed that Hebdon told her he would leave his wife for her, expressing feelings that he knew he shouldn’t have. The girl described her reaction as one of silence, explaining that she chose to keep quiet because the situation made her feel uncomfortable and uneasy.

Hebdon’s defense, led by barrister Tania Griffiths KC, argued that his health issues stemming from meningitis in 2006 had impaired his hearing and response times. This health condition was cited as a factor that affected how his evidence was presented during the trial. Despite the conviction, Hebdon was acquitted of two other sexual offences involving the same minor.

Following the verdict, Hebdon was granted bail and is scheduled to return to court on July 31 for sentencing. The case has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the allegations and the location of the incident near the popular Monk Park Farm in North Yorkshire.