A sex predator, who tried to ruin his victim's life, has been given a 10-year extended jail sentence.

Tony Apps, 52, humiliated the child as he subjected him to sexual abuse dating back many years.

He pleaded not guilty to the sex charges but was convicted by a jury on four charges at Canterbury Crown Court.

Now a judge has given Apps, who has since moved to Bradford, an immediate eight year prison sentence.

Apps, who had lived in Herne at the time, will then serve an extra two years on licence if and when he is released.

Judge James O'Mahony heard from the victim, who was in court for the sentencing, about the effects the attacks have had on his life.

He revealed how on one occasion he had gone to Reculver to take his own life but a friend had talked him out of suicide.

“The effect upon your victim in this case is appalling..." Judge James O'Mahony

The victim also revealed how listening to cases of child abuse in the news had angered him – as he struggled to pluck up courage to tell the police.

Apps, who was first convicted of sexual abuse on a boy in 1983, was later sentenced for five sexual assault charges involving girls.

Prosecutor John Traversi said that since then Apps had breached restrictions imposed under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

The court heard that Apps was no longer in good health but continues to claim his innocence.

The judge told him: “You were convicted by a jury of serious sexual abuse of a male child.

“The effect upon your victim in this case is appalling.

“There is evidence of violence used against him and there is also your previous convictions.”

Under sentencing laws, the judge was unable to pass a prison term greater than that available at the time of the crimes more than 25 years ago.

He added:”These are historic sexual abuse cases and the law is complex. The appalling features of this case involve among other things the humiliation of the young lad and beating of him.

“You did all you could to ruin that child, that young man's life.”

An NSPCC spokesperson said: “This case shows us that it doesn’t matter how long ago abuse took place; those who have experienced it will be listened to.

“Apps’ victim has shown tremendous courage in coming forward and we hope he feels a sense of closure in bringing him to justice.

“If anyone has any concerns that a child is being abused, call the NSPCC helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000. Children can call Childline on 0800 1111 and speak to a trained counsellor, free and in confidence.”