by Keith Hunt

A pervert bus driver has been jailed for 11 years for sexual abuse "of the utmost gravity".

Former soldier Andrew Walding was told by a judge he had only narrowly avoided being locked up indefinitely for public protection or being given an extended sentence.

The 47-year-old, of Rochester Road, Gravesend, admitted three charges of rape, two of sexual activity with a child, one of indecent assault and one of attempted penetration.

Donna East, prosecuting, said Walding touched a young girl sexually and made her touch him. There was similar behaviour with another youngster.

When arrested, Walding claimed he did not have a sexual interest in children. He said he was bisexual but mainly turned on by men.

Nathalie Carter, defending, told Maidstone Crown Court: “He does have insight. He knows what he has done is deeply wrong.

"That insight may reduce the likelihood of offending in the future.”

Walding, who served in the Army for more than six years, had a high interest in sex and used a website to "look for men of similar orientation".

Judge Philip Statman told him: “Both victims have received counselling. These were dreadful acts.”

They carried the burden of what Walding had done to them and then bravely made complaints.

The judge said matters during Army service could have triggered the offences. But he added: “You are an adult and adults have a choice.”

There were issues that needed solving in Walding’s sexuality.

“The most worrying aspect of this case is whether you cross into that area of sentence whereby I should consider imprisonment for public protection or an extended sentence for public protection,” said Judge Statman.

“The matter that troubles me most is whether there is a pattern of offending that has developed. It seems to me this case is very much on the cusp.

“You are perfectly capable of grooming. I have to consider whether the draconian sentence of imprisonment for public protection is called for.

“I am just persuaded this case calls for a substantial determinate sentence.”

Walding’s name will appear on the sex offenders’ register for life and a sexual offences prevention order was imposed.

He will be banned from working with children or vulnerable adults.