A friend and mentor of Sarah Payne killer Roy Whiting has been jailed for nine years.

Former Crawley Speedway Cycle coach Michael Green, described as a “sexual predator” in court, was this morning jailed.

Green, 71, of Aldrington Close, Hove, was convicted following a trial of one count of buggery and two of indecent assault against boys around 40 years ago.

All the boys were aged between 13 and 15 at the time of the offences which took place between 1981 and 1982.

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Green had met them separately in Havant and South London whilst he was engaged in the running of junior cycle speedway clubs.

Detective Constable Dawn Robertson said; "There is no current evidence of any other offending by Green but, as with all such cases, if anyone has new information they can contact Sussex Police via 101 at any time.

“Although every case is assessed on its individual merits, we will always follow up allegations of sexual abuse of children regardless of how long ago they are said to have happened. Anyone who wants to report alleged offending of this type can always contact us at any time via 101 and arrange to talk in confidence to specially trained detectives."

The first victim to come forward, who was at court today to hear the sentencing, said; "The impact that this man has had on me and on my life has been like a life sentence, and today I can find some closure as justice has been done.

“The support from the police and their belief in my case has been invaluable and I would strongly encourage anyone who has abused to come forward. You will be taken seriously."

For the full story – including details of Whiting and Green’s friendship – see tomorrow’s Argus.