Man admits abusing young sisters

A County Down man has pleaded guilty to the rape and sexual abuse of two young sisters over a three-year period.

John Atkinson, from Ashley Park in Millisle, 66, pleaded guilty to almost 60 offences against the girls, which started when one was aged about 10.

Atkinson will be sentenced next week at Belfast Crown Court.

The prosecution said the offences he committed must rank as one of the worst cases of a breach of trust based on the persistent and brutal behaviour.