Atherton man jailed for sexual abuse spanning over five decades

Peter James Wilson of Bowling Green Row, Atherton, pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13 by touching, sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13 by penetration, and creating an indecent image of a child.

The 67-year-old was found guilty by a jury of 23 further sexual offences relating to child and adults including indecent assault and rape.

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Wilson's trial was heard at Bolton Crown Court (Image: Newsquest) Starting in 1972, when Wilson was just 14 years old, he began a horrifying pattern of abusive behaviour towards young people that persisted for more than five decades.

He subjected seven victims, regardless of age or gender, to deeply traumatising experiences, ranging from inappropriate advances to devastating acts of coercion and even rape.

As the years passed, Wilson's predatory behaviour continued to escalate as he manipulated and took advantage of his victims, shattering their innocence and trust.

The year 2023 marked a turning point, as Wilson was arrested at his residence on suspicion of sexual assault involving a child following an incredibly brave disclosure from one of his victims.

This led to a thorough search of his property, revealing shocking evidence of his sinister activities. Among the items seized were two mobile phone devices, a disc enclosed within an envelope, and a small camera containing an SD card.

Disturbingly, police also recovered a hidden camera. Analysis of the camera and mobile phones unearthed videos depicting the cruel exploitation of a female child, aged approximately six to eight years old. These videos fell under the category of first-generation, type A indecent images of children, capturing deeply distressing and sadistic acts.

Upon gathering this information, people were interviewed and evidence was taken, which led to the discovery of further victims of Wilson's horrific abuse and Operation Bunker was initiated to manage all 28 counts of Wilsons abuse and his crimes.

Following the case heard on Monday, September 16, Wilson was jailed for 27 years. He will also be on the sex offenders' register for life and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). 

Judge Abigail Hudson said: “The reality of your offending is that damage you have caused will go on forever.”

Wilson has been jailed for 27 years (Image: GMP)Detective Sergeant Joanne Sweeney of GMP’s Wigan District said: “Firstly, I would like to thank all the victims and their loved ones for their co-operation and support throughout this difficult investigation. We commend every one of them for their bravery and strength which has brought Wilson to justice after years of abuse.

“Throughout the investigation we have ensured those involved receive and will continue to receive the best support from our officers and support services to ensure they are able to rebuild and cope with the trauma they have been subjected to because of Wilsons horrific crimes.

"We know that the sentencing will never erase what they experienced because of Wilson, but we hope that it signifies the beginning of the rest of their lives, allowing them to start to heal and come to terms with what's happened.

“I would like to stress, no matter when the abuse took place, or you think you may not be believed. Greater Manchester Police will believe you; we will listen to you, and we will investigate every report to ensure every offender receives justice for their crimes

"I would also like to acknowledge the hard work that has taken place by DC McNeil and DC Henderson who have worked tirelessly to ensure the victims of these crimes have been supported whilst securing a positive outcome following their bravery."

If you are concerned about a child’s welfare you can contact Greater Manchester Police via gmp.police.uk or by dialling 101. You can also share information anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.