A retired priest has been convicted of historic child sexual abuse. 

Father Dennis Finbow has been found guilty of sexual abuse against a young girl during the 1980's.

The 74 year old - who previously served in the Diocese of East Anglia - was charged in January 2022 with offences relating to his service as a Catholic priest in Peterborough.

Following a six day trial, Huntingdon Crown Court convicted Finbow of three counts of indecent assault on a child and cleared him of two other counts of indecent assault against the same child and one count of indecent assault against a boy.

Finbow has been granted bail prior to his sentencing on 8th March.

Rt Rev Peter Collins, Bishop of East Anglia, said he would be "seeking urgent legal advice" about removing Finbow's clerical status and rights "in accordance with our safeguarding policies and procedures.”

Prior to his retirement, Finbow served in parishes in Peterborough and St Neots, Cambridgeshire. He has not been in active ministry since 2001.

Bishop Peter said: “The safeguarding of children and vulnerable people is of paramount importance to the Catholic Church and the Diocese of East Anglia has co-operated fully with the police and other statutory authorities throughout this investigation. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim in this case and also other victims of child sexual abuse.  We would encourage any victim of child sexual abuse perpetrated within the Catholic Church context to make contact either directly through our Safeguarding Office or with Safe Spaces, our Victim Support Service.

“Should anyone have any concerns or queries about the Dennis Finbow case then I would encourage them to contact Mick Thurley, our Diocesan Safeguarding Coordinator on 07429 215344.”