Manchester paedophile family Joseph and John O'Neill
Manchester father and son John (L) and Joseph O'Neill (R) have been sentenced to 24 years behind bars Reuters/GMP

Manchester father and son Joseph and John O'Neill have been sentenced to 24 years behind bars for decades of sexual abuse against girls in Eccles, Salford and Hackney, in London.

Joseph O'Neill, 82, of Cromwell Road, Eccles, was sentenced to six years in prison at Minshull Street Crown Court on Monday after he was found guilty of sexual offences dating back to 1958.

He was accused of three counts of indecency with a child between 1984 and 1987, four counts of indecent assault between 1975 and 1980, one count of indecent assault between 1980 and 1982, three counts of indecency with a child between 1975 and 1981, and three counts of indecent assault between 1958 and 1963.

The girls were aged between five and 11 years old when the abuse occurred.

His son, John, of Trident Road, Barton, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for a slew of sexual offences against girls also aged between five and 11 years old.

He was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault between 1986 and 1989, one count of rape between 1986 and 1989, eight counts of indecent assault between 1975 and 1980, three counts of indecency with a child between 1975 and 1981 and five counts of rape between 1975 and 1981.

Detective Constable Audra Corlett from the Child Abuse Investigation Team, in Salford, said: "I am pleased with the outcome and with the sentence handed down.

"The sentence reflects the seriousness of the abuse endured by the victims over a prolonged period of time.

"I want to take this opportunity to recognise the bravery of these women. Both John and Joseph O'Neill pleaded not guilty and forced their victims to stand trial and relive their experiences all over again.

"This case proves that we will take all reports of abuse seriously, no matter when it took place, and we will thoroughly investigate the claims of victims.

"It also proves to those committing the crimes that we will leave no stone unturned and justice will eventually catch up with you."

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.