Robert Mattravers (Image: North Wales Police)
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A paedophile who admitted to a catalogue of sexual offences against two children has been handed a life sentence at Mold Crown Court.
Robert Mattravers, 47, of Russell Road, Runcorn, must serve a minimum of 11 years and eight months before he will be eligible to apply for parole. Should he ever be released, Mattravers will remain on licence for the rest of his life and can be recalled to prison at any time.
He was sentenced on Tuesday, 2 June.
How the abuse was uncovered
The offending came to light after one of Mattravers’ victims disclosed the abuse to a member of staff at their school.
North Wales Police arrested Mattravers and launched an investigation. A subsequent examination of his phone uncovered indecent images of children.
The offences
Mattravers pleaded guilty to all charges. The offences, which all took place in Connah’s Quay, included four counts of rape of a child, five counts of sexual activity with a child, and two counts of sexual assault of a child.
He also admitted to engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and causing a child to watch sexual activity.
In addition to the contact offences, Mattravers pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children – two at Category A, the most serious classification, two at Category B, and four at Category C. He further admitted to taking five indecent photographs of a child at Category C.
Orders and restrictions
Beyond the life sentence, Mattravers was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register indefinitely. He has been barred from working with children and vulnerable adults for life.
A lifetime restraining order was also imposed to protect both victims and their parents.
North Wales Police response
Speaking after sentencing, DC Victoria Griffiths of the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit (PVPU) said: “Robert Mattravers is a danger to children, and I am pleased that today’s sentence reflects the seriousness and depravity of the offences he committed.
“He will remain on licence for the rest of his life and if he is ever freed, he can be recalled to prison at any time.
“I commend the bravery and dignity of the victims and their families for having the courage to assist with the investigation, and for their resilience throughout.
“We will leave no stone unturned when investigating those who seek to do harm to vulnerable members of our society. Any victim of sexual abuse is encouraged to come forward with the confidence that they will be heard and supported.”
