A "perverted" and "sadistic" paedophile has been sentenced to 16 years behind bars after being found guilty of multiple child sex offences.

Connor Laud, 27, of Trinity House Lane, Hull, was found guilty of rape of a child under 13 and two counts of inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity following a trial at Grimsby Crown Court.

Connor Laud denied having a sexual interest in children when he was hauled in by police

He has also been placed on the sex offenders register for the rest of his life, with a lifetime sexual harm prevention order.

Laud came to the attention of Humberside Police after the force received a report that a child had disclosed the nature of the sexual abuse they had been subjected to by him.

When arrested and interviewed by detectives, Laud denied all allegations of abuse put to him claiming the child must have become confused.

He also denied having a sexual interest in children.

Appearing at Grimsby Crown Court, following a four-day trial, a jury returned a guilty verdict.

Detective Constable Gayle Allwood of Humberside Police, who led the investigation, said: "I'd like to praise the child, and their family for their bravery.

"I cannot begin to comprehend how they have felt throughout the entirety of this investigation.

"Laud is a perverted and sadistic man and whilst this sentence does not take away the pain and trauma induced, it is because of the families' sheer courage that he is going to be behind bars for a very long time.

"When ready, we urge victims to come forward and tell someone, report these crimes to the police and we will do everything we can to hold those accountable."