VIDEO: Victim speaks out after Derbyshire rapist jailed for 13 years

Now aged in her 40s, she hopes that by speaking out after the sentencing, she can encourage other abuse victims to come forward and speak to police.

Graham Lilley was jailed after a jury found him guilty of 11 charges; eight of indecent assault, two of rape and one of attempted rape.

The crimes were against two girls, one who was aged about six at the time and the other about 12. They happened in the late 1970s and early 80s.

The victims reported that Lilley would abuse them at his house in Wyndale Drive, Ilkeston.

The woman said: “I was really pleased with the sentence. I thought that 13 years was a long time, but I thought he should have got life because it’s a life sentence I’m serving.

“Coming forward was a difficult thing to do. It was hard speaking to the police because then you have numerous interviews you have to do but they are people to help you through it.

“I think people should come forward if it has happened to them, whether it was recently or years ago. Just because it was a long time ago, these people will still be convicted; you just have to be strong.

“Counselling has helped me a lot and if you have friends and family, they can help you through it.

“Just come forward if you can and try and get justice for yourself and make sure they get a sentence. It’s hard going to court but seeing the sentence he got has made it all worthwhile.”

DC Nicola Richardson, the officer in the case, said: “The two victims in this case have shown real courage in telling the police and then the courts about the abuse they suffered.

“This case demonstrates that no matter how long ago sexual abuse was committed, victims will be listened to and justice can be done.”

Lilley, 71, who still lived at the Wyndale Drive address, was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court on April 8.