Robert Park, formerly of Hall Croft Road, Retford, must serve at least eight years before he can be considered for parole.

He admitted 14 charges, including the indecent assault of three girls.
Nottingham Crown Court was told he had no prior convictions and had been considered locally as a 'kind, helpful' man.

Judge Jonathan Teare told him that, for six years in the late 70s and early 80s and for five to six years this century: "You have vilely abused young girls."

His behaviour had been 'depraved and revolting', said the judge, who added: "You have ruined the lives of two girls."

Park will be on the sex offenders register for life and banned from ever working with children again.

Dc Louise Gowan, from the Notts Police Child Abuse Unit, said: "This has been one of the most traumatic cases I have ever investigated and I would like to praise the victims and their families for their strength and courage over the last few months."

"Today's sentencing should now bring them closure and I hope they can now begin to move forward and rebuild their lives."