A man has been jailed after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a seven-year-old boy.

James Emmerton, 29, of Pinemead in Shefford, was given a two-and-a-half year jail sentence on Monday for the sexual assault, which occurred in July 2012.

Emmerton had pleaded not guilty in relation to the incident that took place at his home address when a number of children had been in his house playing computer games.

During the trial, which took place at Luton Crown Court, the jury were told that Emmerton had taken the victim – now aged 9 – into his bedroom and sexually assaulted him and only stopped when he heard other people walking up the stairs.

It took three months for the victim to disclose the details of the attack to his parents who immediately called Bedfordshire Police.

The jury found Emmerton guilty of sexual assault on the boy and on Monday he was jailed for 30 months and given a 10-year Sex Offenders Prevention Order.

DC Clare Steel-Jessop from Bedfordshire Police said: “First and foremost I want to praise the victim who came forward in very difficult circumstances to tell his parents about the sexual assault that he suffered. If it hadn’t have been for his bravery then Emmerton could still be a free man.

“Sexual assault on a child is a terrible crime and Bedfordshire Police continues to do everything possible to identify offenders and bring them to justice. I hope that this conviction and sentence goes some way to show victims of sexual assault that they will be believed and action can be taken.

“I would urge any victim of sexual abuse to show courage and report what has happened to them by calling Bedfordshire Police or speaking to their parents, family, friends or teachers so they can get the help and support that they need.”

Anyone with information relating to sexual abuse or any other crime should contact Bedfordshire Police by calling the 101 number or by ringing Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.