PATRICK LOWE SHOCKS CHORLTON AND TIMPERLEY WITH CHILD ABUSE CONVICTION

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Chorlton and Timperley, Patrick Lowe, a 65-year-old man with longstanding ties to the area, was sentenced to nine months in prison after being found guilty of indecent assault. The conviction follows a four-day trial at Manchester Crown Court, during which a woman, now aged 32, bravely recounted her traumatic experience of abuse that occurred over two decades ago.

According to court proceedings, Lowe, who had established a close relationship with the victim’s family, exploited their trust during a period of vulnerability. The girl, only 13 years old at the time in 1985, was subjected to sexual assault by Lowe at his Bed & Breakfast establishment located in Chorlton. The abuse was so severe and traumatic that it left her paralyzed with fear and silence for nearly twenty years.

It was during a period when Lowe was caring for the girl’s father, who was battling cancer, that the abuse took place. Lowe, then in his mid-40s, had become a trusted family friend, often taking the girl on trips in his van and inviting her to visit his B&B, where he would sometimes involve her in chores in exchange for money. The victim’s silence was broken only in 2004 when she finally felt able to approach Greater Manchester police to report the crime, leading to Lowe’s arrest and subsequent trial.

Despite denying the charges, Lowe was convicted of indecent assault and ordered to remain on the Sex Offenders Register for ten years. The court’s decision marked a significant victory for the victim, who endured years of trauma before finally finding the courage to come forward. Lowe’s history in the community is notable; he moved to England over 30 years ago and became a prominent figure within the local Irish community in South Manchester and North Cheshire. His contributions to the local boxing scene were recognized in 2003 when the Mayor of Manchester awarded him a long service award.

Throughout his time in the area, Lowe was known for his involvement in the boxing gym he ran, which was frequented by Manchester United footballer Roy Keane. Keane, who was a regular visitor, expressed his shock upon learning of Lowe’s conviction. The football star had previously been close to Lowe, even donating equipment to the gym in Timperley and attending family functions where Lowe was present. Keane’s association with Lowe added a layer of public interest and concern to the case.

Detective Constable Nicky Shaw of the Child Protection Unit at West Didsbury police station commented on the outcome, stating, “This sentence is an extremely positive result for the woman Lowe abused,” emphasizing the importance of justice for victims of such heinous crimes.