THE grandfather of a girl who was groomed and sexually abused by a paedophile pensioner says the family were taken in by his “charm and harmless nature”.

Peter Daniels, aged 69 and of Eyres Drive, Alderbury, was sentenced to 12 years in prison on Friday after he admitted 12 sexual offences dating back to August 2016.

Prosecuting, Tim Moores told Winchester Crown Court Daniels was known as “Uncle Peter” to a large number of children in Salisbury.

Daniels had looked after many children and they had got into the habit of visiting him, with some staying the night in his home.

The girl’s grandfather, who cannot be named to protect the child’s identity, told the Journal: “He was very good at making us feel at ease. He came across as a kindly old uncle.

“He started babysitting and it went from there. He would take them on trips and buy presents for their birthday.”

He said that the girls were always asked what they had done whilst visiting Daniels and the subject never arose.

The victim’s grandfather added Daniels was seen as a “nice, self-made man” who was a “harmless gentleman” and “charming”.

“He got so into our family that he was like an uncle. We were taken in by him as he wasn’t just nice to the children but the parents as well.

“I feel gullible that I was taken in by him at face value. I feel stupid and rather down to be taken in by somebody.”

He said that he didn’t believe that the allegations were true until the police investigation continued into the months.

Daniels was sent to prison for 12 years with an extended licence period of five years, which the grandfather said was too lenient.

“I do feel he has got away with it, 12 years is not enough for what he has done.”

Daniels will also be made subject to a sexual harm prevention order and an indefinite restraining order against his two victims.