A child rapist has been jailed for 18 years after he admitted sexually assaulting two underage girls in Stevenage.

Dean Manning – now of Congleton in Cheshire – waged a merciless five-year campaign of sexual abuse against the two children, who were as young as 11.

And appearing in the dock at Cambridge Crown Court yesterday, the 49-year-old paedophile pleaded guilty to 20 charges relating to sexual exploitation and ill-treatment.

Manning admitted 12 counts relating to the rape, attempted rape and other sexual abuse of the two girls.

He also pleaded guilty to six counts of inciting children to engage in sexual activity, and two of causing unnecessary suffering through ill-treatment.

Judge David Farrell QC handed Manning a 26-year extended sentence, meaning he will serve eight years on licence in addition to his 18-year jail term.

He will have to serve 12 years before becoming eligible for parole.

DI Lynda Coates, from the joint child protection investigation team, afterwards paid tribute to the bravery of Manning’s victims in coming forward.

She said: “This sentence reflects the seriousness of Manning’s crimes and the devastating impact his actions have had on his victims.

“His abuse of young girls spanned over a number of years, and his victims have been incredibly brave in coming forward and speaking to police.

“I believe Manning still represents a significant risk to girls so I welcome the lengthy sentence that he has been given, which will protect the public from further harm.

“If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, we have dedicated specialist officers who can support you and I would urge you to make contact with police.”

Judge Farrell imposed 20 concurrent jail terms of at least four years for each of the defendant’s crimes.

He also ordered Manning to sign the sex offenders register for life, and made him subject to a life-long sexual harm prevention order restricting his use of the internet. Manning must also pay a victim surcharge.

• If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, you can contact police on 101 or the independent Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0808 178 4448.