GARETH MEANOCK'S BRUTAL CRUELTY IN BLACKPOOL AND OLDHAM: CHILDREN ENDURED SEVEN YEARS OF TERROR

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Blackpool and Oldham, Gareth Meanock, a 36-year-old man with strong far-right political views, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for a series of heinous acts of child cruelty. The court heard how Meanock subjected two young boys to nearly seven years of relentless abuse, including violent assaults and psychological torment.

During the trial at Manchester Minshull Street Court, the jury found Meanock guilty of two counts of child cruelty in July, with the judge, Bernard Lever, describing him as an unremorseful individual who showed no remorse for his violent actions. The court was told that one of the victims, now 16 years old, has been left significantly affected by the abuse. His father expressed his anguish after the sentencing, stating, “Meanock’s arrogance was there until the end and he showed no remorse whatsoever. My son is still badly affected by what happened, but he is trying to get his life back on track. I honestly did not think he was going to go to prison at one stage. It’s just a relief he has.”

Details of the abuse revealed that Meanock, who now resides in Blackpool, once shot at one of the boys with an air rifle. After missing his target, he fired again, causing trauma and fear among the children. The court also heard that the violence was not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of cruelty that spanned several years.

Throughout the investigation, it was established that Meanock frequently moved residences within the Oldham area, living at various addresses including Longfellow Crescent, London Road, Lees Road, and Kipling Road. Social media evidence showed him holding a poster advocating for the “vote NF,” indicating his support for the National Front, a far-right political group. Witnesses described how his initial abuse was verbal but eventually escalated into physical violence, with one brave child finally speaking out and prompting police intervention.

Despite the serious allegations, Meanock denied any wrongdoing, citing knee problems that prevented him from working. The court was told that his behavior had caused lasting damage to the victims, with one of the boys suffering emotional and physical scars. Judge Lever condemned his lack of remorse, stating, “You have not admitted any of it and you have showed no remorse to this regime of cruelty.” The case highlights the devastating impact of long-term abuse and the importance of justice for vulnerable children in the communities of Blackpool and Oldham.