ANDREW GIBSON FROM WESTON-SUPER-MARE JAILED FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL ABUSE IN BRISTOL AND LUNDY ISLAND

In a case that has shocked the local community and brought to light disturbing allegations spanning over four decades, Andrew Gibson, a man formerly associated with Bristol and residing in Weston-super-Mare, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for sexually abusing five young boys. The crimes, which date back approximately 43 years, involved multiple victims and occurred during his time as a scout leader and conservation warden.

Andrew Gibson, aged 84 and living on Trinity Place in Weston-super-Mare, was once known for his dedication to animal welfare, notably serving as the general secretary of the Bristol RSPCA. However, beneath this facade, he concealed a dark secret that would eventually come to light through a detailed police investigation and court proceedings. The Bristol Crown Court heard that Gibson’s abusive actions began when the victims were all under the age of 13, with the abuse spanning a period of more than four decades.

Specifically, Gibson targeted four boys during his tenure as a scout leader within a Bristol-based scout group. The court was informed that he engaged in inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct with these young boys, exploiting their vulnerability and trust. Additionally, it was revealed that he committed a serious sexual assault on a fifth boy while serving as a conservation warden on Lundy Island, a remote location known for its natural beauty and wildlife conservation efforts.

Despite his denial of any wrongdoing, the jury found him guilty of nine counts of indecent assault and one count of buggery. The verdict was delivered after a trial held in March of this year, following a police report received in 2016 that detailed Gibson’s predatory behavior. The court was told that Gibson’s actions had left lasting scars on his victims, who have carried the burden of this abuse into their middle age.

Judge William Hart sentenced Gibson to a total of 17 years in prison. The sentence comprises 16 years of incarceration and an additional year of extended licence, reflecting the gravity of his crimes. During the sentencing, the judge emphasized the betrayal of trust involved in Gibson’s actions, stating, “For 40 years a dark secret lay behind your character. You had sexually abused five different boys and they have all carried the burden of that abuse into middle age.”

The judge also praised the efforts of the police, particularly Detective Constable Kat Collier, for her diligent investigation that ultimately led to Gibson’s conviction. The case has served as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children and the devastating impact of abuse by those in positions of authority and trust.