A BISHOP has condemned the ‘appalling’ behaviour of a former choirmaster who was recently jailed after sexually assaulting young boys in churches across Cheshire.

Richard Owen, also known as Franklyn Stanowski, abused 14 boys after they joined the choir at churches in Winsford, Knutsford and Altrincham.

The 70-year-old, from Winsford, admitted to 27 offences involving indecent assault of underage boys and was sentenced to 12 years at Chester Crown Court on September 30.

Following his sentencing, Julie Conalty, the Bishop of Birkenhead and Lead Bishop in the Diocese of Chester (which covers Cheshire) said: “I feel a deep sense of shame that this happened in our diocese and that some of the abuse was perpetrated in our church buildings.”

In private rooms, and out of sight of adults, Owen told young boys to remove their trousers to be struck on the buttocks for his own sexual gratification.

The offences occurred between 1968 and 1998 when the boys were aged under 16.

Owen's abuse was carried out while he was positioned at St John’s Over Church in Winsford, St Cross in Knutsford, and St John’s in Altrincham.

Owen also volunteered at a primary school during this time.

A statement from Julie Conalty reads: “I want to thank those who raised concerns about Richard Owen, especially the victims for assisting the police with their investigation.

“Their courage, strength of character and determination to see justice done has resulted in the conviction of a serial sex offender.

“Despite the passage of time, I am aware that for many, the abuse they have suffered will have a life-long impact and I continue to pray for all those affected by this case.

“It is appalling that Richard Owen used his position as a trusted choirmaster to facilitate his abuse of young boys over many years and I feel a deep sense of shame that this happened in our diocese and that some of the abuse was perpetrated in our church buildings.

“It is much harder for abusers to hide in plain sight in our churches and projects nowadays, but safeguarding is a never-ending task, and we remain committed to vigilance and to ensuring that the correct safeguarding practices and processes are followed.

“I hope that the awareness that this case brings might be an encouragement to others to come forward to report safeguarding concerns or abuse.

“You will be listened to, taken seriously and cared for.”

Julie urged any individual who wishes to come forward with information or to make a disclosure to contact the acting diocesan safeguarding adviser, Sean Augustin on 07704 338885.

Alternatively, Splitz Support Services is an independent charity that specialises in supporting victims and survivors of abuse.

They can provide confidential, independent and specialist support.

You can email them on safespaces@splitz.org.