A PAEDOPHILE has been convicted of sexual abusing children more than 50 years after he began preying on young boys.

Terrence Ryan, from Woolston, subjected his first victim to abuse in the early 1960s and would go on to abuse three more children until the late 2000s.

The pensioner is finally facing jail after one of these victims came reported his vile crimes to Northumbria Police, sparking an investigation by the force’s safeguarding unit.

He has now admitted 14 counts of historical sexual abuse – including sexual touching, engaging in sexual activity with a child, inciting sexual activity with a child and rape.

Ryan, 77, will be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court in August.

Detective sergeant Andrea Burns said: “This man thought he was untouchable and continued to abuse young boys for more than 50 years.

“My heart goes out to the brave victims who have suffered in silence for so long, and I hope the conviction of Ryan gives them all a sense of solace and closure.

“This also sends a really strong message that it is never too late to report sexual abuse to police.

“Some of these offences were committed in the early 1960s, yet we have still been able to seek justice for the victims.

“No-one deserves to suffer the way these victims have so please, if you have been a victim of abuse, speak out.

“We are here to help.”