A 62-year-old Ipswich man has been jailed for 13 years after being found guilty of six counts of indecent assault of girl under the age of 10.

Joseph Page, of Brecon Close, went on trial at Ipswich Crown Court last month and was found guilty of the offences, all against the same girl, on March 18.

He appeared at Ipswich Crown Court this morning for sentencing and was jailed for a total of 13 years.

The offences date back to the 1990s and came to light in July 2014 when the victim found the courage to contact police about what had happened.

She reported she had been subject to sexual abuse by Page over a period of time when she was aged under 10.

Police immediately began an investigation and, after initial enquiries, Page was brought in for questioning. He denied having any sexual contact with the victim but when he was asked about why she may have made the allegations he gave a ‘no comment’ answer.

Following further enquiries, Page was summonsed to appear at Ipswich Magistrates Court on June 30 2015 to face the sexual abuse charges.

Officer in the case Detective Constable Natalie Cole said: “A friend of the victim encouraged her to tell her partner about the abuse and, after receiving their support, she decided to report to police.

“She was interviewed and gave a clear account of several occasions when abuse had occurred.

“We carried out a full investigation and spoke to a number of people who gave information which tied in with the account she had given.”

Dc Cole added: “The result today has again shown that we can get justice for victims of historic offences.

“Any allegations will be investigated and, even if you do not wish to go to court, support and help is available.”

People affected can call Suffolk police on 101, or if someone does not wish to speak to police they can get support from Suffolk Rape Crisis on 0800 0850 520.

More information about rape and sexual violence and details of local services available for victims of all ages can be found here.