85-year-old man who sexually abused young girls in Saltcoats finally brought to justice

An 85-year-old man who sexually abused three young girls in Saltcoats has finally been brought to justice after more than 50 years.

At the High Court in Glasgow Thomas Smyth admitted carrying out the attacks in the 1960's and 70's at various addresses in the North Ayrshire town.

Prosecutor Duncan McPhie said: “The first girl was abused when she was aged four and then again when she was eight or nine. She told him she did not like this, but did not tell anyone.”

The second victim was sexually abused by Smyth when she was four or five and his third victim when she was 10 or 11.

The court heard that Smyth gave two othe his young victims a piggy back and while doing this touched their private parts.

The third victim was taken into a bedroom by Smyth and sexually abused.

In court, Smyth pleaded guilty to three charges of lewd and libidinous behaviour.

The court heard that a police investigation was launched in April 2017 when Smyth victims came forward.

When he was arrested he told police: “It didn't happen.”

First offender Smyth is in custody because he failed to turn up for a court appearance.

Judge Lord Matthews told him: “I am going to require a report before sentencing you.”

Smyth was placed on the sex offenders' register.

Defence counsel Louise Arrol will make her plea in mitigation when the case calls again next month.