North Somerset man jailed for multiple sex offences
Grant Wedlake was found guilty of multiple offences including rape of a child under 13
A man from North Somerset has been jailed for 21 years after being found guilty of a series of sex offences, dating back to 2005.
Grant Wedlake (32) of no fixed address, from Felton, has been sentenced after being found guilty in January of 12 offences, including sexual assault of a child under 13, rape of a child under 13 and rape.
In statements read out at Bristol Crown Court Wedlake's victims said his offending had left them feeling ashamed and has had a long term impact.
“Now that Grant has been found guilty, I don’t really know how I feel," one said.
"Part of me feels bad about Grant going to prison but at the same time he did something that was so wrong it was unspeakable and made me feel guilty and ashamed and sent my life off track.
"I hope that one day he will realise the effect he has had and feel bad about it himself, because at the moment I don’t think he does.”
Another said: ""I lived with the secret of what Grant had done to me.
"Grant had made me feel that no one would believe me.
“Now that Grant has been found guilty, whilst I feel relieved in a way, the feelings of shame, guilt and anger are still there and I don’t think I will ever get rid of them.
"I am so angry that Grant has done this to me.
"He not only ruined my childhood, he has basically ruined my entire life.
“I will never forgive Grant for what he did to me”.
Investigating officer Ellen Rye said: “Wedlake is a dangerous and manipulative man and I would like to take the opportunity again to praise the victims in this case for coming forward and sharing their experiences with the court.
"I know that his offending has had a profound impact on each of them and I hope that they can move forward, re-build their lives and finally take the opportunity to focus on themselves.
"I would urge anyone who is a victim of sexual assault or rape, recent or non-recent to talk to us – we will listen."
If you are a victim of sexual assault or rape, recent or non-recent, you can also self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Visit their website here or call 0117 342 6999.
You can also find much more support via this link.