PAUL ATKINSON FROM ECCLESTON SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENSES NEAR CHORLEY

In a case that has shocked the local community, Paul Atkinson, a businessman from Eccleston, has been sentenced to a decade behind bars after being convicted of multiple counts of sexual activity involving a minor. The court proceedings, held at Preston Crown Court, revealed that Atkinson, aged 43, was found guilty on ten separate charges, which included three counts related to a child under the age of 13 and seven counts involving a girl aged between 13 and 17. The victim's identity has been protected by law, and her privacy remains safeguarded throughout the legal process.

Paul Atkinson, who grew up in Euxton and was well-known locally, was the director of Westlea Garage and MOT Centre, as well as a tractor contracting company. His reputation in the community was tarnished by the allegations and subsequent conviction, which have sent ripples through the area near Chorley. The court's verdict underscores the severity of the crimes committed and the importance of safeguarding minors from such predatory behavior.

Following the sentencing, a former employee of Atkinson came forward, expressing frustration and concern over the businessman’s inappropriate comments about the young girl involved. The former worker, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted an incident from 2008, stating, “We were in the brew room one day, back in 2008, and he made a horrific sexual comment about the girl.”

He further explained his reaction, saying, “I said: ‘That’s sick, you don’t say things like that about children.’” The employee revealed that his concern was so intense that he confided in family members about Atkinson’s behavior. He also disclosed that, three months after raising his alarm, he decided to leave his job, citing his desire to distance himself from Atkinson’s influence.

He added, “I didn’t want anything to do with him. He was a bully, a big bloke who was intimidating – he was all mouth.” The testimony highlights the troubling environment surrounding Atkinson and the failure of others to intervene earlier. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to protect vulnerable children and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.