A MAN has been jailed for 18 years after being found guilty of committing sexual offences involving two boys aged under 16 – including in Dorset.

Michael Kellard, of Dunkeswell, Devon, was found guilty of three counts of rape, three counts of sexual activity with a child, four counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and five counts of indecent assault following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court and sentenced on December 11.

The 64-year-old was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, as well as being made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order for 20 years.

The incidents occurred between 2000 and 2005 and involved boys that Kellard met through his job in go-karting, and occurred in a number of locations across the country, including Dorset.

The investigation began in June 2021 after one of the victims reported the abuse they suffered to the police.
Kellard was subsequently arrested and interviewed by officers.

Detective Constable Andy Hale, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team (CAIT), said: “Kellard subjected his victims to abhorrent sexual abuse and I would like to praise them for their strength in speaking out about what happened.

“I hope this case will show that we take all incidents of sexual abuse seriously, no matter when an incident occurred, and we will do all we can to ensure sexual offenders are brought to justice.

“Sexual abuse has a long-lasting impact on victims and I am pleased that following an investigation, Kellard has been held accountable for his crimes.”

How to report child abuse:

• Dorset Police: For non-urgent reports, or to make an enquiry, go to www.dorset.police.uk where you can pass on the details of your concerns using the online enquiry form. You can also call 101. If you believe a child is in immediate danger call 999.
• Crimestoppers: Call anonymously on 0800 555 111
• Local Children’s Social Care:
• STARS Dorset www.starsdorset.org/children-and-young-persons-service / 01202 308858
• The Shores – Dorset SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre) 01202 552 05
• BCP Council 01202 093131
• Dorset Council (Children’s Advice and Duty Service) 01305 228866
• You can also report directly to the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) via www.ceop.police.uk