ROBERT BAMBURY FROM CLARE, ISLE OF ARRAN, AND STOWMARKET JAILED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the communities of Clare, the Isle of Arran, and Stowmarket, Robert Bambury, a 75-year-old former school janitor, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of multiple counts of child sexual abuse. The allegations span several decades, with the earliest offenses reportedly occurring in the mid-1970s, and involve two young girls who were just five and six years old at the time of the initial abuse.

According to court records, Bambury's abusive actions took place at various locations, including his home on the Isle of Arran and the grounds of Clare Middle School in Suffolk, where he was employed as a caretaker. The abuse was only brought to light after the victims, now aged 20 and 21, decided to speak out and provide statements to the police. Their courage in coming forward was prompted by an emotional conversation with one of the victims' daughters, which ultimately led to a police investigation.

Prosecutor Jo Cunningham outlined that the victims had been too frightened to disclose the abuse during their childhood, which contributed to the delay in justice. The court heard that Bambury's misconduct included inappropriate touching under the guise of innocent play and incidents occurring in a swimming pool, among other locations. The evidence presented during the trial revealed that Bambury's actions were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of predatory behavior spanning several years.

In April 2014, Bambury was convicted at Ipswich Crown Court of seven counts of indecent assault against the two girls. The jury deliberated for 13 hours before reaching their verdict. The court also heard that Bambury, who is married and a father of five, claimed to have had a seven-year affair with one of the victims, asserting that it only began when she was 16. However, the prosecution dismissed these claims as untrue, and Bambury's defense argued that the allegations were fabricated.

During the trial, the jury was unable to reach verdicts on three additional charges of indecent assault and two counts of indecency with a child. Bambury was found not guilty of rape and three other charges of indecent assault. Judge John Devaux ordered that Bambury serve two consecutive four-year sentences for the convictions related to the abuse of the two girls. In addition, Bambury is now subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order and has been placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses.

In his defense, Bambury expressed regret for the situation but maintained his innocence regarding the specific allegations. He suggested that one of the victims might have been experiencing a nervous breakdown at the time. Despite his claims, the court found sufficient evidence to convict him, and he was taken into custody to serve his sentence. The case has left a lasting impact on the victims and the communities involved, highlighting the importance of speaking out against abuse and ensuring justice is served.