A WOMAN has been given a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to four counts of child cruelty.

Tracey Louise Williams, 36, of George Bew Close, Hereford was given a two year suspended prison sentence and a two year supervision order at Hereford Crown Court on Friday.

She was found not guilty of one count after a trial at the court.

Williams' sentence follows that of Keith Williams, 55, of Bath Street, Hereford who had earlier been sentenced to 20 years in prison for ten counts of sexual offences against children which included rape and sexual assault.

Detective constable Lisa Grogan said: "This result reflects the serious nature of the offences committed by both Keith and Tracey Williams.

"I would like to commend the victims for their courage in coming forward to us and supporting the investigation, so that we could investigate the offences thoroughly and ensure that those responsible came to justice.

"I hope this will encourage other victims to speak out in order to gain the justice they deserve.

"West Mercia Police treat all reports of sexual offences and rape extremely seriously, and together with our partner agencies, we will work to ensure that victims are given all of the support necessary and that those who commit these offences are held accountable for their actions."

Anyone affected by rape or sexual assault can refer themselves or contact the Glade, a sexual assault referral centre, which offers a free service, independent of the police, to anyone who may have experienced rape or sexual assault in Shropshire, Telford, Herefordshire or Worcestershire by calling the 24-hour self-referral number on 0808 178 2058 or visiting www.theglade.org.uk.