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A former Scout leader has been jailed for 16 years for repeated sexual assaults on young girls.

Anthony John Morgan abused his two victims for almost a decade.

The 72-year-old’s offending was first reported in February this year, and police have praised the courage of the girls in coming forward.

One of the victims was aged under 13.

The Scout Association said today he would never be allowed to volunteer with them again.

Morgan, of Marlborough Road, Brynmill, Swansea, pleaded guilty to a total of 33 sexual offences when he appeared in the dock at Swansea Crown Court, all of which took place between 2006 and this year.

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The charges faced by Morgan:

Nine counts of sexual activity with a child under 13;

Ten counts of assault by penetration on a child under 13;

Six counts of sexual activity with a child;

Four counts of causing/inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity;

Two counts of causing/inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and;

Two counts of rape.

Morgan was formerly a leader with a Scout group in Swansea.

Detective Sergeant Leanne Heaven from South Wales Police’s Swansea public protection unit said: “Despite the serious sexual assaults the victims had the strength and courage to support the police prosecution and gave vital evidence of their harrowing and traumatic experience.

“The victims were supported throughout by specialist officers, from the public protection who continue to work tirelessly for victims of sexual assault and target and pursue individuals who exploit the most vulnerable persons within our society.”

This is what the NSPCC had to say on the case

The jailing of Morgan has been welcomed by children’s charity NSPCC Cymru.

A spokesman said: “Morgan caused untold damage to his victims over a prolonged period of time.

“Survivors of child sexual abuse should be commended for coming forward and disclosing the abuse they have suffered.

“It doesn’t matter whether the sexual abuse happened a year ago or 50 years ago, it is never too late to report it.

“It’s important that people like Morgan who carried out these vile offences are identified and finally brought to justice.”

The response from the Scouts

A spokesman for the Scout Association said the organisation was "aware of the court proceedings against Morgan and has co-operated fully with the statutory agencies throughout this investigation".

“As soon as we were made aware of the investigation Morgan was suspended from all involvement in the Scout Movement. He will never be allowed to volunteer with us again," they added.

“The Scout Association carries out stringent vetting of all adults who work with young people and requires them to work to a strict code of practice outlined in the Young People First code of practice.”