A FORMER gymnastics teacher who sexually assaulted two children has been jailed.

In December last year, 62-year-old David Schadek was convicted of four counts of sexual assault, one count of sexual assault of a child, and one count of perverting the course of justice.

It related to assaults on children between 2004 and 2017.

After the offences came to light when one of the incidents was reported to police in January 2018, work by officers from the Child Abuse Investigation Team identified other incidents.

Today, at Chelmsford Crown Court, Schadek, of Fenno Close, Colchester was jailed for four and a half years.

In a statement, one of his victims and their family said: “David Schadek groomed children and betrayed their trust.

“We are relieved that no others will have to suffer at his hands and now he has to face the consequences of his actions.

“We would like to acknowledge the bravery of the victims for speaking out and telling their truth.

"Also thanks to Essex Police for their many years of hard work and support to get justice for the victims.”

Detective Inspector Fred Tompkins said: “David Schadek is a predator who preyed upon his young victims.

“It is through their bravery that we have been able to put him behind bars, unable to put other children at risk.

“They have shown tremendous courage in telling us what happened to them and their resilience throughout this long investigation has been incredible.

“I want to thank them for their trust in us and hope they take comfort in the knowledge Schadek has now been brought to justice for what he has done.

“We will continue to work to root out those who prey on children and lay bare their heinous crimes for all to see.

“I urge anyone who has been the victim of a sexual crime to contact Essex Police. Our specialist officers will support you and your voice will be heard”.