Ex-Verger Jailed for Horrific Abuse of Two Boys
Clive McCleester, 77, from Winchester, was locked up for eight years and will spend another eight on licence after admitting to multiple sexual offences against two teenage boys. The shocking sentencing took place at Inner London Crown Court on Monday, 10 July.
Victims Finally Get Justice After Long Fight
Detective Sergeant Hannah Stewart from the Met’s Central Specialist Crime unit said:
“This has been a long and arduous investigation with McCleester maintaining his innocence throughout. We are pleased he has finally admitted his guilt just three days before we were due to take him to trial to present our case.”
One victim sadly passed away before hearing the verdict, but his family stood in court for him. The second victim was abused by McCleester while a chorister at Southwark Cathedral, where McCleester worked as a Head Verger. Both endured devastating trauma at a young age and showed incredible bravery throughout.
Stewart added: “McCleester is a vile predator who has no place in society. We urge anyone else affected by him to come forward—we will support you.”
Decades-Old Abuse Uncovered
- Between 1969 and 1971, McCleester abused a boy aged 13-15 at Tylney Hall School in Hampshire, where he served as a child welfare officer.
- The victim was assigned to McCleester after his grandmother’s death, and McCleester lived onsite in a private residence.
- In a separate case, McCleester abused a 13-year-old chorister between 1984 and 1987 at Southwark Cathedral, including at McCleester’s flat within the vicarage.
Met’s Relentless Investigation Overcame Pandemic Delays
Detectives sifted through decades-old files, employment records, and medical reports to build their case. The Covid pandemic slowed progress due to archive closures but specialists never gave up.
McCleester was finally charged in February 2022. His initial trial was delayed from October 2022 to June 2023, when he pleaded guilty.
Support Available for Victims
The Met has specially trained officers and support services ready to help survivors of sexual abuse. For advice and assistance, visit the Met Police’s website.
