Former football coach jailed for sexual abuse committed in the 1980s
Written by John Williamson on 02/08/2018
A former football coach has been jailed for five years for sexually assaulting seven boys in the 1980s.
Anthony Pickering, aged 56, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court today (2ndAugust).
Pickering was convicted by a jury on 24th July for ten counts of indecent assault committed whilst he was a football coach at a youth football team based in the Windermere area.
Pickering’s offending came to light when one of his victims disclosed what had happened to him to police in 2016.
Detective Inspector Helen Curme, South Cumbria Crime and Safeguarding Team, said:
“I commend the victims who were brave enough to report the offences against them and see this through the judicial process.
“Pickering abused his position as a youth football coach to sexually assault young boys. I am glad that he has been brought to justice for his crimes and I hope that this can bring some form of closure to his victims.
“Cumbria Constabulary remains committed to investigating offences of this nature, no matter when they happened, and no matter what the role, position and status of the alleged offender.
“I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward safe in the knowledge that they will be treated sensitively and professionally.”
If you wish to report a crime or speak to an officer about an incident, please contact Cumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
If you have been affected by rape or sexual assault, contact The Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Service’s 24/7 free helpline on 0808 118 6432.
