A "despicable" paedophile has been found guilty of more than a dozen sexual offences against a child.

John Darby, 66, of Thames Road, Grays, was convicted following a trial at Basildon Crown Court on August 9.

In 2017, Essex Police received a report from a girl, who bravely disclosed that she had been sexually abused by Darby.

The Child Abuse Investigation Team say the abuse took place at Thurrock Yacht Club where he often taught children how to sail.

Darby was arrested and in interview denied all allegations against him.

Despite his denial, he was charged with 12 counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration, one count of causing a child to engage in sexual activity and one count of attempted assault of a child under 13 by penetration.

A trial began at Basildon Crown Court on August 6, and on August 9, the jury deliberated for less than two hours before finding him guilty on all counts.

He will appear at the same court on Thursday, August 15, to be sentenced.

Det Insp Emma Portfleet praised the bravery of the victim.

She said: "The trauma that Darby has put this victim through is despicable.

"Even when given the opportunity, he refused to plead guilty, putting the victim and witnesses through a trial.

"In addition to the horrendous ordeal that this victim has been through, she has had to spend years re-living what happened to her when she was a child.

"I praise the bravery, tenacity and courage of this victim for remaining patient throughout this investigation in order to put a dangerous man behind bars.

"His conviction will not reverse the damage he has done, but I hope that the victim is able to start moving forward.

"Our Crime and Public Protection team will continue to work to make sure that dangerous perpetrators such as Darby are held accountable for their crimes.

"No matter how recently an offence took place, we will always investigate and support victims throughout the process."