Former County Durham vicar found guilty of historic sex offences

80 year old Granville Gibson pictured on his way into court Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

A retired senior clergyman has been found guilty of two historic sex offences.

After a trial at Durham Crown Court, 80 year old Granville Gibson was convicted of two counts of indecent assault against young men.

The charges relate to his time as a vicar in County Durham between 30 and 40 years ago.

Gibson was cleared of a further 5 historic sexual offences, including 2 involving a boy.

Gibson will be placed on the sex offenders' register. He will be sentenced at a later date and was released on bail.

The judge told Gibson that all sentencing options will be open to the court, including custody.

Gibson has held a number of senior roles in the church, including Archdeacon of Auckland in the Diocese of Durham.

The court heard he was also a member of the General Synod.

Anybody with concerns can contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Contact Line: 0800 689 4704.