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Sept 2021

Last Updated: 07/09/2021

Crime

'Deep shame and regret' at former Harrogate vicar's child sex offences

by Calvin Robinson

| 07 Sept, 2021

The Diocese of Leeds says the actions of a former Harrogate vicar jailed for nine years and seven months for child sex offences were "deeply shocking". However, it declined to comment on his time in Harrogate.

Gordon Newton, 40, was sentenced to nine years and seven months in prison on Friday.

The Diocese of Leeds has spoken of its “deep shame and regret” after a former Harrogate vicar was jailed for child sex offences.

Gordon Newton, who was a team vicar at St Wilfrid’s Church on Duchy Road until 2016 when he moved to his recent position in Batley, pleaded guilty to 12 charges at Leeds Crown Court on Friday.

Six of the charges were for sexual assault of a child aged under 13, three were for engaging in sexual activity with a child aged under 13 and three were for making indecent photos of a child.

He was sentenced to nine years and seven months in prison.

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The Diocese of Leeds oversees five episcopal areas, one of which is Ripon, which includes churches in Harrogate.

The Stray Ferret asked the diocese whether any investigation was being undertaken regarding Newton’s time in Harrogate, but it said it would not be offering any comment on St Wilfrid’s, which is an Anglican parish church.

However, the Stray Ferret understands there is no previous or ongoing North Yorkshire Police investigation into Newton.

In response to the sentencing, a spokesperson for the diocese said:

"It is a matter of deep shame and regret that Gordon Newton has been sentenced for offences of child sexual abuse.

“Child sexual abuse is a terrible crime and a grievous breach of trust, which has life-long effects.

"This is deeply shocking and of course, the victims of any such crimes must be foremost in our thoughts and prayers.

“The Anglican Diocese of Leeds safeguarding team has worked closely with all concerned since it was made aware of these allegations and has offered pastoral care and support.

“The Diocese of Leeds is committed to making the church a safer place for all and has clear safeguarding procedures in place, but we are aware we can never be complacent.”

The Stray Ferret has approached St Wilfrid’s Church for comment but has not received a response.

According to an annual report published by the church, which is on Duchy Road, Newton joined as assistant curate in May 2012 before being licensed as team vicar in April 2013.

He was also member of the management team at the Jennyfield Styan Community Centre and a chaplain with the Harrogate and District Sea Cadets.

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'Deep shame and regret' at former Harrogate vicar's child sex offences

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