A PAEDOPHILE couple sexually abused young children and filmed the sick acts on their mobile phones.

Peter Taylor and Keeli Burlingham were handed more than 25 years behind bars on Friday after police uncovered their catalogue of abuse.

Phones and a computer were seized from former Birchwood High School pupil Taylor’s home during a raid by officers in April 2018 after Greater Manchester Police received intelligence that he had downloaded thousands of indecent images from the internet.

Warrington Guardian:

Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court heard that messages on these devices revealed that he had encouraged his partner to sexually assault a young girl.

Burlingham carried out the appalling act and sent pictures of her attack to Taylor, who is originally from Howley but also lived in Orford and Birchwood.

Warrington Guardian:

Officers discovered further videos taken by the pair, both aged 33, of further assaults they had carried out – having abused five children in total.

One detective described vile messages sent between the pair as ‘some of the most appalling seen in her career’.

Detective chief inspector Judith Holmes, of Greater Manchester Police’s public protection unit, said: “Taylor and Burlingham knew how old their victims were.

“They have absolutely no excuse for their grossly inappropriate and predatory behaviour towards children.

“This pair subjected innocent children to sickening abuse, prison is absolutely where they belong.

“Discussions between the two planning the sexual abuse found on their phones were some of the most appalling conversations I have seen in my career.

“I hope today’s result helps the victims and their families move on from what must have been an incredibly traumatic experience.

“This case should highlight just how seriously we take reports of this nature and our absolute commitment to seeking justice for those affected by such heinous acts.

“Please, if you’re struggling and need support – we are here to listen.”

Taylor, now of Dukinfield, was found guilty of sexual assault, arranging a child sex offence, taking indecent images, making indecent images and two counts of encouraging the commission of an offence and was jailed for 15 years.

Burlingham, also of Dukinfield, was handed an 11-year sentence after being convicted of two counts of sexual assault, arranging a child sex offence, taking indecent images, distributing indecent images and making indecent images.

An NSPCC spokesman added: “Taylor and Burlingham's appalling acts of coordinated grooming and abuse will have caused their victims unimaginable physical, mental and emotional pain.

“The devastating impact of abuse and sexual exploitation on young people can last a lifetime.

“We hope the children in this case have received the support and help they need, and that they and their families find some solace in knowing Taylor and Burlingham have been brought to justice.

“We would also urge anyone who has experienced abuse to speak out and seek support.”

Children who have suffered abuse should call Childline on 0800 1111, while adults can report abuse by contacting the NSPCC helpline on 0808 8005000.