A PERVERTED pensioner who sexually abused a "vulnerable" schoolgirl for almost two years is behind bars.

Burnley Crown Court heard how grandfather Frank Henderson, 67, had a secret relationship with the 14-year-old and gave her cigarettes in return for "treats".

The child was also being molested by another man at the time and was driven to twice attempt suicide by her ordeal.

Sentencing Henderson, who was cautioned for indecently assaulting a five-year-old girl he was babysitting several years ago, Judge Stuart Baker said his behaviour had been persistent and escalated from touching to sex acts.

He said the defendant had groomed and abused the child, presented a risk of further offending and showed little insight into the girl's immaturity or the potential long-term effects of his conduct.

Henderson, of Cobden House, Cloughfold, Rawtenstall, admitted eight allegations of indecent assault, between Sept 2001 and June 2005.

He was jailed for two years and also given a three-year extended licence period, was disqualified from working with children and must not have contact with any youngsters under 16 unless supervised by a parent or legal guardian, until he is 75.

Martin Hackett, prosecuting, said the victim would go to the defendant's home with other teenage girls, to watch television and have a cigarette.

Henderson offered her cigarettes to do sexual things and started to cuddle the girl and fondle her over her clothes.

The teenager did not really realise what was going.

The prosecutor said the pensioner told the 14-year-old heloved her and began to grope her and commit sex acts.

Mr Hackett said the defendant told the victim: "If you want some cigarettes you are going to have to treat me."

The girl later told police she knew what was happening was wrong but Henderson told her not to tell anybody or they could get in trouble.

The relationship came to light when the girl was very upset at school. Henderson was arrested and taken to the police station where he told officers he was not capable of having sexual intercourse.

He claimed he did not know why the girl was making the allegations as he thought the world of her.

Henderson said they had only kissed and cuddled and he did not think he was doing any harm.

Tim Ashmole, defending, said Henderson, who was suffering from chronic obstructive airways disease and severe emphysema,had a misguided perception of his relationship with the girl and her victim impact statement made harrowing reading.