MARTIN MCANDREWS FROM SITTINGBOURNE FOUND GUILTY OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

In a recent court ruling, Martin McAndrews, a 38-year-old lifeguard from Sittingbourne, has been convicted of sexually assaulting a teenage girl. The incident has garnered significant attention, not only because of the nature of the crime but also due to McAndrews's previous notoriety and the circumstances surrounding his employment.

McAndrews appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court to face sentencing after being found guilty of the charges. The court ordered him to complete 300 hours of community service as part of his punishment. Additionally, he was placed under a six-month community order, which requires him to adhere to certain conditions set by the court. To further ensure public safety, McAndrews has been registered on the sex offenders’ register for a period of five years.

As a consequence of his conviction, McAndrews has been dismissed from his position at the Swallows leisure centre located in Sittingbourne. The incident and subsequent legal proceedings have cast a shadow over his previous role as a lifeguard at the facility.

Prior to the conviction, McAndrews faced allegations at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court in January, where he denied any inappropriate contact with his victim. However, the court found him guilty in March after considering the evidence presented. In addition to the community service and registration, he was ordered to pay court costs amounting to £635 and a victim surcharge of £60.

McAndrews’s background includes a period of public notoriety dating back to 2007, when he became the subject of a bullying campaign. During that time, he was often targeted by visitors to the Swallows leisure centre, who mocked his appearance by comparing him to Borat, the comedic character known for his distinctive moustache. Video clips of McAndrews, highlighting his resemblance to Borat, were circulated on YouTube, and visitors frequently taunted him by shouting catchphrases associated with the character.

A spokesperson for Serco, the company responsible for managing The Swallows leisure centre, issued a statement following the legal developments. They confirmed that McAndrews was suspended when the allegations first surfaced. After his conviction, the company confirmed that his employment had been terminated, emphasizing their stance on maintaining a safe and respectful environment at their facilities.