Former reverend jailed for historical sex offences

A former reverend from Coventry who sexually abused two boys during the 1990s has been jailed.

Philip Aspinall, 73, was jailed for 23 years at Warwick Crown Court for multiple counts of indecent assault on a male and indecency with a child.

The offences took place between 1991 and 2000, the Diocese of Coventry said.

A spokesperson for the diocese said: "We unreservedly apologise to all victims and survivors who have suffered abuse at the hands of Philip Aspinall."

Aspinall was formerly a minister at St Peter's Hillfields.

A police investigation was launched into the former reverend in 1997, at which point his licence as a minister was revoked and he was forbidden to officiate in any acts of worship by the then Bishop of Coventry.

He was, however, given permission to act as an ordained process engineer and safety adviser within the diocese.

In 2013 Mr Aspinall's permission to minister was withdrawn completely.

A spokesperson for the diocese said: "We acknowledge that much has changed for the better regarding on-the-ground safeguarding procedures in the Church of England over the last 30 years.

"Safeguarding training, awareness, and procedures are now much more thorough and robust, as we continue our commitment to ensuring that every one of our churches is a safe place for all."

Aspinall was jailed at a hearing at Warwick Crown Court on 31 January.

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