Victims of a man who lured them into sex as teenagers during the 1990s have "finally received the justice they deserve."

Police have welcomed the 14-year prison sentence for 76-year-old William Michael Reynolds, after he was convicted of 24 sexual offences against children in Penzance in the 1990s.

Reynolds, now living in Matlock Terrace, Torquay, was sentenced at Truro Crown Court following a five day trial. He was handed a sentence of 14 years and will also sign the sex offenders register.

Reynolds plead not guilty to the charges, but the jury found him to be guilty on 21 counts of indecent assault on a male, two counts of buggery and one count of attempted rape.

Police began an investigation into the historic abuse in 2016 after one of the victims came forward to speak to officers. During the initial investigation, officers identified a second victim who was spoken to by officers and agreed to give evidence.

The offences were committed in the 1990s in Penzance against two victims who were teenagers are the time. The victims were in their teens when they each met Reynolds. He befriended them and committed the offences over a number of years.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Lara Turner said: “This has been a lengthy and complex investigation made all the more difficult due to the defendant’s continual denial.

“I have nothing but admiration and respect for the victims bravery and strength; not only in what they endured and suffered both mentally and physically as children but in finding the strength to come forward and report this abhorrent man and the heinous acts he inflicted on them.

“Reynolds could have prevented these men enduring a protracted investigation and subsequent trial where they have been forced to relive the horrendous acts they suffered time and time again. Instead, he continued to exert his control to the last minute causing them further unnecessary distress in the process.

"Despite this, the victims have shown nothing but patience, respect and dignity throughout and have finally received the justice they deserve.”

Detective Inspector, Daniel Massey said: “Both victims have been extremely brave and have had to relive the truly awful events that Reynolds put them through all those years ago.

“They are to be commended for their courage and strength, making them a positive beacon for victims of this type of crime and I would urge anyone who has been a victim of either this individual or others, to feel confident enough to come forward and make contact with us.”

If anyone feels they have been a victim of non-recent sexual abuse and would like to talk to someone to seek advice, they can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or via help@nspcc.org.uk.

Police can also be contacted via 101@dc.police.uk or by phone on 101.