A MAN described as a “serial abuser of children” has been jailed for more than 20 years.

Keith Lockwood, 70, of Park Lane in Keighley, was jailed for 23 years on Friday, May 9 at Leeds Crown Court after being found guilty of 23 non-recent sexual offences committed over a 30-year period.

Detectives praised the victims for coming forward.

The offending took place in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s across the Kirklees district.

Lockwood is currently on the sex offenders’ register and will remain so for life.

DC Gilly Hodds, who investigated the case with T/DS Mark Eyres of the Kirklees District Child Safeguarding Unit, said: “Lockwood was found guilty by a unanimous guilty verdict of an appalling catalogue of offending against victims who were young and vulnerable.

“He forced those victims to relive the dreadful offences he committed against them by putting them through the ordeal of a trial, and I am pleased for them that the jurors saw through his attempts to evade answering for what he has done.”

She described Lockwood as a “serial abuser of children” and said: “Victims in this case demonstrated exceptional bravery.”

“This is another case which demonstrates it is possible for victims to seek and receive justice, even years after offending has taken place,” added DS Hodds.

“We would encourage anyone who has been affected by Lockwood to make contact with the Kirklees Child Safeguarding Unit where you will be supported and listened to.”