A MAN faces the ‘gate of ruin’ after sexually abusing a 10-year-old schoolgirl.

Philip McCabe, who previously lived in Warrington, has been jailed for five years after admitting a string of sexual offences against the young girl.

The 35-year-old former Warrington Wolves volunteer was told his actions between 2014 and 2016 ‘defied belief’ during the sentencing hearing at Chester Crown Court on Monday. 

The court heard how McCabe, from north Wales, abused the girl by touching her, simulating sexual intercourse and sending inappropriate text messages demanding she carried out a sex act on another boy – but when she refused his suggestions, he told her she was ‘no fun’.

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Maria Masselis, prosecuting, said: “Over a period of time, McCabe sent sexual and inappropriate messages to the victim.

“He then asked her to delete the messages between them.”

Anthony O’Donohoe, defending, described McCabe, who has two previous convictions of common assault and battery, as ‘at the gate of ruin’.

He said: “It will lead to a loss of liberty and a loss of employment. 

“This is a man who can perhaps rehabilitate himself and rebuild his life.”

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During sentencing, judge Steven Everett said: “You pleaded guilty right at the door of court for serious matters.

“She was only a little girl and your selfish and despicable behaviour has taken away her innocence. 

“What a terrible thing to do – it defies belief.”

McCabe, who admitted four counts of sexual activity with a child on the first day of his trial, was also ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life.

He is also banned from working with children for life on his release. 

A spokesman for Warrington Wolves confirmed McCabe left the club before the RFL issued a temporary suspension order.

The abuse was not reported to have happened within the club.

The spokesman added: “McCabe was at the club between 2014 and 2015 as a part-time volunteer. 

“During this period he had been DBS certified, as per RFL safeguarding procedure.”