KENNETH HUGHES FROM OLDHAM JAILED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE AT OLDHAM TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Oldham community, Kenneth Hughes, a 65-year-old man from White Bank Road, Oldham, has been sentenced to an indefinite prison term after admitting to a series of heinous sexual offences spanning over four decades. Hughes, who previously served as the chairman of the non-league football club known as Oldham Town, pleaded guilty to a total of 39 charges related to child sexual abuse during an earlier court hearing.

Many of these offences took place within the premises of the football club itself, where Hughes held a position of authority and influence. The crimes, which occurred between 1966 and 2008, involved sexual activity with minors, acts of indecency, and even paying for sexual services involving children. It is important to note that the victims, who are now adults, are not believed to have been players for the club, but were nonetheless targeted by Hughes during his years of abuse.

According to police reports, Hughes would often manipulate young boys by offering gifts and alcohol in exchange for their companionship or to gain their trust. Det Sgt Jason Byrne of Oldham CID explained, “He used his position of authority within the club and the community to gain the trust of innocent young boys, and then completely abused that and subjected these boys to a traumatic ordeal.”

Despite the prolonged period over which the abuse occurred, it was only when the victims reached adulthood that they found the courage to come forward and report Hughes’ actions. Their bravery ultimately led to his arrest and subsequent conviction. Det Sgt Byrne emphasized, “Thanks to the courage of these victims, Hughes’ crimes have finally caught up with him, and he is now serving time where he belongs—behind bars.”

During the investigation, authorities worked closely with the football club itself. The club, which later changed its name to Oldham Boro following Hughes’ arrest, expressed its dismay and disassociation from Hughes’ actions. David Shepherd, who was the secretary of Oldham Town and remains secretary of the newly renamed club, stated, “We knew nothing of what was going on. We were deceived and used for what he was doing. We are disgusted.”

Hughes was sentenced at Minshull Street Crown Court to an indeterminate term for public protection, with a minimum of seven years to be served before eligibility for parole. The case has left a lasting impact on the community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding within local institutions, especially those involving vulnerable children.