A man has been jailed for life for sexual offences against children.

Darren Rolfe, 42, denied rape, sexual activity with a child, sexual assault and two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

He was found guilty by a jury following a nine-day trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, which concluded on December 10.

Rolfe, of Northview Avenue, Tilbury, was sentenced on Monday, February 1 to life imprisonment. He must serve a minimum of 11 years before he can apply for parole.

His co-defendant Tracey Hollington, 47, denied a charge of child cruelty but was convicted following trial.

Hollington, of Northview Avenue, Tilbury, was jailed for five years on Monday, February 1.

The offences were committed between 2009 and 2011 and involved a girl and a boy aged under six.

Dc Emma Dove, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team based in Brentwood, said: "This has been the most harrowing and emotional case I have dealt with so far in my seven years working with the Child Abuse Investigation Team.

"The suspects preyed on the vulnerability of their victims and denied their involvement, showing no emotion throughout.

"The sentences passed reflect the gravity of the offences they committed.”

An NSPCC spokesman said: “Darren Rolfe’s crimes were depraved and horrifying. He exploited the children and forced them to endure the most horrendous forms of abuse.

“The scale of the abuse is truly appalling and we know how devastating and long lasting the impact will be.

“Child protection is everyone’s responsibility.  We must all be alert to signs of a child’s distress and responsible enough to act on our concerns without hesitation.

“For help and support children can contact ChildLine 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0800 1111 or by visiting www.childline.org.uk.”