A "DESPICABLE" 20-year-old North Yorkshire man has been jailed for grooming and abusing two girls.

Reece Michael Hudson, from Scarborough, was sentenced to two years and four months at York Crown Court on Friday (November 10), and had denied multiple sexual offences against two girls which took place between 2013 and 2015.

Hudson was arrested in June 2016 when one of the victims made a complaint to North Yorkshire Police, and an extensive investigation followed, as his first victim also came forward.

Detective Constable Alex Parker, who led the Scarborough Serious Crime Team investigation, said: "Reece Hudson is a despicable individual who preyed on young and vulnerable girls for his own sexual gratification. He utilised social media to groom in his offending, and callously took advantage of them.

"I am glad he is now facing up to the consequences of his sickening behaviour, and I truly hope his victims can gain some comfort and begin to rebuild their lives knowing he has been sent to prison.

"I have nothing but admiration for the bravery the victims have shown in this case. It proves again that it is never too late to make a complaint to the police. Victims can be assured that professional support is readily available and our officers will do everything possible to seek justice."

Hudson pleaded guilty to six counts of sexual activity with a female aged under 16, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one count of possessing an indecent photograph.

He was also made subject of notification requirements as a sex offender for 10 years, and an eight year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.