Man from Eccles jailed for abusing a boy for more than a decade

A 75-year-old man from Eccles has been jailed for eight years after abusing a boy for more than a decade. 

Raymond Willan pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault on a child under 13, two counts of sexual activity with a child aged 13-16 and possession of extreme pornography.

Willan, who has been described as the “worst kind of predator”, was jailed for eight years at Manchester Crown Court on March 12 2024.

The abuse came to light after the victim disclosed it had been happening for several years.

Specialist GMP investigators praised the young victim for his bravery in reporting the abuse.

DC Amy Barrett, of GMP’s Child Protection Investigation Unit, said: “The courage of the victim in this horrific case is extraordinary and without it Willan would still be at large.

“He is the worst kind of predator who exploited a child for his own sexual gratification.

“Victims of sexual abuse, however young, should not be afraid to report it to police – we have specially trained staff who will investigate with compassion and determination.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, the GMP encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report information and crimes on their website (www.gmp.police.uk).

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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*Exact ages, dates and locations have been intentionally removed by the GMP*