A CHILDREN'S charity has condemned the appalling actions of a 27-year-old man who raped a vulnerable child after his girlfriend arranged for the horrific offence to take place.

Anthony Roscoe, from St Helens, was convicted of rape after his then girlfriend Chloe Bradley, aged 17 at the time, escorted the 12-year-old girl to his home.

Roscoe, 27, who claims he did not make any effort to find out her age, was jailed for four years following a hearing at Bolton Crown Court on Monday, November 11.

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He has also been served a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for five years and placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely

Bradley, now 19, of Wigan, admitted arranging the commission of a child sex offence.

She was sentenced to 22 months imprisonment (suspended for one year), Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, Sexual Harm Prevention Order for five years and placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years.

Commenting on the sentencing, an NSPCC spokesperson said: “Through their appalling manipulation and sexual abuse, Bradley and Roscoe inflicted immeasurable emotional and mental scarring on a vulnerable child.

“We hope she is receiving all the support she needs, and commend her bravery in ensuring Bradley and Roscoe could be brought to justice.”

Children can contact Childline 24/7 on 0800 1111.

Adults concerned about the wellbeing of a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 8005000.