KEITH WOOD FROM CONGLETON AND ULVERSTON JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN FURNESS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Congleton, Ulverston, and the wider Furness area, Keith Wood, a businessman once regarded as highly successful and respected, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for a series of serious sexual offences involving two young girls. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Wood’s inappropriate conduct, which has not only led to his incarceration but also to the destruction of his reputation and standing within the local community.

Keith Wood, aged 56, formerly residing in Great Urswick, Ulverston, and now living on School Lane in Congleton, was found guilty of multiple charges related to sexual misconduct. The offences took place in the Furness region, and the court was told that his actions had a profound impact on the victims and the community at large. Wood, who was a co-founder of the Barrow-based engineering firm Agrilek, pleaded guilty to a total of ten charges, including engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a minor, inciting a child to engage in sexual acts, and sexual activity with a minor. Additionally, he admitted to indecent assault involving another girl under the age of 16.

Prosecutor Mr. Tim Brennand detailed the disturbing nature of Wood’s conduct during the trial. He recounted that Wood had made inappropriate comments to one of the girls, telling her, “You are gorgeous,” and inquiring about her sex life before touching her sexually. Regarding the second girl, Wood performed a sexual act in her presence, asked her intimate questions, and mouthed words like “gorgeous” and “fit” to her, while also touching her. These acts took place in the Furness area, and the court was informed that Wood was arrested on August 26 of the previous year. During police questioning, he exercised his right to silence and did not respond to any questions.

It was also revealed that Wood had a prior conviction for indecent exposure dating back 38 years, adding a troubling historical context to his recent offences. His defense lawyer, Mr. Roger Baldwin, spoke on his client’s behalf, emphasizing that Wood had led a diligent and successful working life, earning respect within his community. Baldwin acknowledged the gravity of the offences, noting that Wood’s behavior was grossly inappropriate and that the offences involved two victims, with one victim subjected to repeated offending.

Mr. Baldwin argued that an immediate custodial sentence might not be the most beneficial course of action, suggesting instead a three-year community order coupled with a sex-offenders treatment programme. He highlighted that Wood had shown remorse and accepted responsibility, stating, “I totally acknowledge the harm I have done to so many people.” The lawyer also pointed out that a prison term might hinder the opportunity for rehabilitation and that Wood presented a low risk of re-offending.

Judge Anthony Russell QC, in delivering the sentence, expressed his disappointment at seeing a man of Wood’s intelligence and success in the dock for such serious offences. He emphasized that the offences were too grave to warrant a community sentence alone. As part of the court’s ruling, Wood was prohibited from working with children and was ordered to be placed on the sex-offenders register for ten years. Furthermore, the court ordered the recovery of £2,860 in defence costs, underscoring the seriousness of the case and the impact on the victims and community.