Psychologist convicted of abuse

Kenworthy held a senior position at Tameside General Hospital

A clinical psychologist has been convicted of indecently assaulting 'vulnerable' female patients.

Reginald Kenworthy, 76, of Stocks Lane, Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, assaulted the women when he worked at Tameside General Hospital in the 1980s.

Kenworthy was head of clinical psychology at the hospital between 1972 and his retirement in 1992, specialising in hypnotherapy.

He had denied two charges of indecent assault, but will be sentenced later.

Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court heard Kenworthy had asked women personal questions about their sex lives and used shock aversion treatment on their genitalia.

One victim, a 46-year-old woman, was referred to Kenworthy after the breakdown of her marriage.

I never believed that a man working in his position in a hospital could be so evil Victim, 46

Police say he asked her questions about her sex life, before using the shock treatment on her.

A 48-year-old woman was referred to the doctor after suffering depression and panic attacks.

Kenworthy devised a plan for her to lose weight, with penalties including locking her in a cupboard, standing in front of him in a swimming costume and also giving her shock aversion treatment.

Det Con Diane Backler, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "This is a man who abused his position at the hospital in order to take advantage of vulnerable women.

'Great distress'

"These women put their trust in Kenworthy, many of them were referred to him by their GP. They genuinely believed he was trying to help them.

"His actions have caused the victims a great deal of distress and I'm sure they will be relieved that he has finally been brought to justice."

One of victims, a 46-year-old woman from Denton, said after his conviction on Thursday that Kenworthy had "taken away part of her life".

She added: "I never believed that a man working in his position in a hospital could be so evil.

"I'm pleased that, even though a number of years have passed, he has finally been brought to justice."