A HEREFORDSHIRE man was sentenced to 13 years in prison yesterday for the historic sexual abuse of three boys while he was a residential social worker.

After an eight-day trial, David Corrick, aged 55, of Orchard Close, Sutton St Nicholas, was found guilty of five counts of buggery and three counts of sexual assault, which occurred between 1977 and 1994.

The offences happened at two children's homes - Froome Bank in Bromyard, and 126 Barnards Green Road in Malvern, as well as at a private address in Herefordshire, which cannot be given for legal reasons.

Neither home is still operating.

Corrick was employed at Froome Bank between 1976 and 1985, when it was closed down, and then at Barnards Green Road from 1985 to 1997.

This home has also since closed down and has been demolished.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Mike Denman, of the Child Protection Unit at Worcester, said: "When Corrick was sentenced, it was noted that he had used his position of power and authority to deliberately target vulnerable children from troubled backgrounds.

"He intimidated and coerced his victims in a planned course of conduct over a significant period of time.

"His actions were a gross abuse of trust that caused significant lifelong effects on his victims.

"This has been a difficult trial due to the distressing subject matter concerned.

"The victims, who are all now adults, have faced an extremely traumatic few days following a very lengthy investigation.

"They have shown great bravery and character in facing these issues and have got the result they deserve.

"They are appreciative of finally having recognition of the torment they endured in their childhood at the hands of someone whose sole responsibility was to care for them, and the impact it has had on their lives.

"They are now looking forward to moving on with their lives".