A SURVIVOR who was the subject of a sickening sexual abuse campaign by a school caretaker has told of her “relief” after her attacker appeared in court.

The victim said “my biggest win is that he hasn’t been able to silence me any longer” following the conclusion of a trial of issue at Chelmsford Crown Court.

In May 2017, Essex Police was approached by the brave victim who after 23 years disclosed she had been subjected to multiple sexual assaults in Colchester when she was just a child.

David Prior, 80, of Princes Avenue, Enfield, was charged with three counts of sexual assault by penetration.

Echo: Trial of issue - Chelmsford Crown CourtTrial of issue - Chelmsford Crown Court (Image: ANDRA MACIUCA)

The offences occurred in the early 1990s in Colchester and Edmonton when Prior was working as a school caretaker.

On February 15, a jury decided Prior had committed the charges raised against him.

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The victim has now bravely spoken out and encourages other victims, who haven’t found the strength yet, to come forward.

“I know that many people might be reading this and feel like he has had an easy ride but this is not the case,” she said.

“For me, I feel like he’s suffered the consequences of his actions now that the public are aware of his true colours.”

Echo: Sexual assault - a child was sexually assaulted by PriorSexual assault - a child was sexually assaulted by Prior (Image: Fabio Pagani)

“I knew that I would have to relive the incidents which was extremely emotionally distressing, however it bought a sense of relief to finally be able to speak fully about what had happened to me without having to hold back.

“It’s felt empowering to feel like I’ve got the control back which I lost as a child to him.

“This whole ordeal has had a huge impact on me and my family but I feel like I have got my justice just knowing that my voice has been heard.”

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She said the support received from her independent sexual violence advisor from Synergy Essex was “incredible”.

“I would encourage any survivor of sexual abuse to report it,” she added.

“Yes, it can be distressing speaking about what has happened but I already feel as though my mind and body is starting to heal and every hard part of this journey has been worth it.”