CHILD protection chiefs have attacked the appalling way Pulsford betrayed a position of trust to prey on his young victims.

The solicitor described himself on a now deleted biography on the website of legal firm Jeary and Lewis as having been a youth club leader for 30 years.

He was also a member of the regional committee of the Urban Saints charity, a Christian organisation that runs residential camps and weekly group meetings for young people.

A spokesman for the NSPCC in the south west said: “Pulsford preyed on numerous victims appallingly across several decades, betraying positions of trust and authority which he held in the community in the worst possible way.

“He is now finally facing the consequences of actions and this case highlights that survivors of sexual abuse can receive justice, no matter how long ago the offences took place.”

An Urban Saints spokeswoman said the charity was deeply shocked by news Pulsford had pleaded guilty to the historical sex offences. "We're obviously helping the police with any ongoing enquiries," she added.

The NSPCC’s free helpline for adults who require support is available 24 hours a day on 0808 800 5000.

Help for children and young people is available through ChildLine on 0800 1111.