A man who sexually abused a young child in Southampton has been jailed.

Brian Wills, 51, assaulted the girl – who was under the age of 10 – on 20 July last year. Following this assault police were called.

The girl told officers that she had been abused by Wills on a number of other occasions between July 2023 and July 2024 in Southampton.

Wills, of Hopes Avenue in Dalmellington, East Ayrshire, was subsequently charged with four counts of assault by touching and one count of assault by penetration.

He pleaded guilty to all of the offences at Southampton Crown Court on 2 June this year.

Appearing at the same court on Monday 21 July, he was jailed for 3 years and 10 months.

DC Gemma Boyle, from the Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT), said: “This was a shocking series of offences against a young girl, who has been so incredibly brave in talking about what happened to her.

“It takes such courage to do so, particularly at such a young age, and this must not be understated.

“Sexual offences involving children often have a devastating and lifelong impact on victims, and can be some of the most complex and horrific cases for police to investigate.

“CAIT are a dedicated and specially trained team of officers and staff who are committed to investigating child abuse, bringing to justice anyone who harms a child, and providing support to those affected.

“I hope the outcome of this investigation can give confidence to those who have been abused and are suffering in silence that they are not alone, and we will do everything in our power to target those responsible.”

We want to encourage anyone who has been affected by child sexual abuse to contact police on 101, where you can speak to the police in confidence.

We recognise that not everyone is ready to talk to police about what they have experienced. Please be reassured that there are other services available that can offer you specialist support to help you deal with the impact of abuse.

You can visit the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website for more information on where to seek independent support in your area: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/

Alternatively, contact Child Line on 0800 11 11, or if you are an adult who has been affected, you can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.