ALAN CHATFIELD FROM GRANTHAM AND WATERLOOVILLE SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEX CRIMES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Hampshire and Kent, Alan Chatfield, a once-respected figure in the business world, has been convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses. The 56-year-old, who previously served as the head of Southampton’s Federation of Small Businesses until last year, was found guilty on nine counts related to disturbing sexual misconduct, including gross indecency with a child, rape, and multiple sexual assaults.

Chatfield’s criminal activities spanned over several years, and he believed he had managed to evade justice for nearly three decades. However, his dark past was brought to light after police investigations culminated in his arrest in late 2010. The case was prosecuted at Canterbury Crown Court, where jurors unanimously convicted him of three counts of rape, three counts of gross indecency with a child, two counts of indecent assault on a female, and one count of serious sexual assault. During the trial, the court was instructed to acquit him of an additional charge of indecent assault on a female, and the Crown Prosecution Service chose to drop allegations related to child pornography.

Originally from Grantham, where he grew up, Chatfield’s career was primarily rooted in the electronics industry. He held roles with notable companies such as ITV’s former firm TVS, Christchurch-based military communications firm Plessey, Wessex Electronics, and Blake Electronics in Southampton. Following Blake Electronics’ voluntary liquidation, he co-founded CF Electronics in Lockerley, working alongside another former employee to manufacture components for other electronics manufacturers.

His prominence extended beyond his business ventures. Chatfield was a well-known figure within Hampshire’s business community, having been re-elected as chairman of the Southampton branch of the Federation of Small Businesses three years prior to his conviction. He also played a significant role in regional organizations, serving as a spokesperson on transport and environmental issues for the Wessex-wide FSB. Additionally, he represented the Southampton federation on various partnership bodies, including Graduate Job South, Hampshire Strategic Partnership, and Hampshire West Young Enterprise, which aims to engage children as young as four in the world of business.

His involvement extended to local government and youth initiatives, serving on task groups for Eastleigh, Test Valley, and Southampton councils, as well as sitting on the board of Young Enterprise in Southampton. Despite the serious charges against him, the FSB initially stated it would not suspend Chatfield. However, following his conviction, he was replaced as chairman of the Southampton branch by David Webb last year.

Following his sentencing, Chatfield was ordered to remain on the sex offenders’ register for life and was banned from working with children indefinitely. Authorities confirmed that he has since been released and is currently residing in Waterlooville, Hampshire, where he continues to live under the shadow of his past actions.