A FORMER teacher jailed for 12 years for sexually abusing children more than 30 years ago had exploited his position of trust in an environment where his victims should have been safe, an NSPCC spokesman said.

Peter Holmes, 73, an English teacher and sports coach at Malsis School, was locked up at Bradford Crown Court on Friday.

Holmes, of King Street, Bristol, was convicted by a jury in May of 29 offences, including indecent assault and gross indecency.

He was employed at the Crosshills school between 1976 and 1991.

After the case, the NSPCC said: “For decades, Holmes exploited his position of trust to sexually abuse children in an environment where they should have been safe.

“The victims have lived for many years with the devastating impact of this abuse and with the knowledge he had not faced justice.

“We hope they can find some comfort following his convictions and sentencing. It is so important that anyone who has experienced sexual abuse knows who they can speak to and is confident they will be listened to, and allegations will be investigated.

“Children and young people can contact Childline on 0800 1111, and adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 8005000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk”