A paedophile rapist who abused two “vulnerable young girls” in the 1970s and ‘80s has been jailed for 13 years.

Ivan Craddock, 63, was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape and one count of administering a noxious substance at Snaresbrook Crown Court today.

The court heard how Craddock, who knew both of his victims, carried out his reign of abuse over a sustained period when the girls were in their early and mid-teens.

One of Craddock’s victims, who was 12 at the time the abuse started in 1977, told how he had taken her in his car to a venue in Hornchurch. Once there, Craddock sexually abused her. The abuse continued until the girl was 17.

Craddock, of Glascote, Tamworth, also abused another girl, aged 13 at the time of the attacks. The victim was given a drink which was drugged, before Craddock attacked her in 1988.

The offences only came to light when one of the victims was approached by police about another matter in 2008. She told officers about the abuse Craddock had subjected her to as a child and the investigation commenced.

A further victim was identified and Craddock was arrested in June 2012. He was charged in July 2013.

Det Const Karen Drew, of the met’s sexual offences, exploitation and child abuse command, said: “Ivan Craddock abused two vulnerable young girls, in one case rendering a 13-year-old helpless by drugging her.

“His crimes are sickening and he must have assumed by the passing of time that he had got away with them.

“I would like to praise the courage of Craddock’s victims who had confidence in the police to investigate their claims, although historical, and to ensure they received justice.

“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence, no matter whether time has passed since the offence, to contact police.”