Kaitlin pictured aged nine - Heart pounding, Kaitlin Womack stared in shock at a Facebook post on her phone. In that moment, a horrifying memory from her childhood came flooding back. It was 2016, and her former neighbour, Kert Birtwistle, 29, had been convicted of child sexual offences. Seeing his face on her screen knocked Kaitlin, 25, for six. Because what nobody knew was that she’d been harbouring an awful secret since the age of nine. Birtwistle had subjected Kaitlin to three sickening sexual assaults while she played at his house as a child, including touching her privates under her swimming costume. Three years later, in 2019, Kaitlin, from Preston, reported Birtwistle to the police. When she did, six other victims also bravely came forward. In October 2024, Birtwistle, from Blackpool, was convicted of 14 charges, including rape and sexual assault. He was jailed for 12 years at Preston Crown Court. His brother, Jordan Wright, 28, also pleaded guilty to 18 sexual offences and was jailed for over 16 years. Now, Kaitlin is courageously waiving her right to anonymity to help encourage other survivors to report their abusers to the police.
SNUGGLED up in the hay away from the elements, this adorable hoglet has sought solace with a familiar friend .
WIDE EYED with a huge smile across her face, this little elephant is a picture of happiness .
MESMERIZING night sky photographs offer a spellbinding look at the stars .
From a platter of finger licking chicken wings to a bowl of Chinese noodle soup, these foodie snaps are enough to make your savoury saliva glands drool .
A striped marlin means business as it spots lunch and spears a small fish .
A doting seal smiles at her sweet little pup as she tickles its tummy on the beach .
A trio of ants are locked in a tug of war over a fly as they pull the bug by its legs .
A panic stricken kitten that got her head stuck in a car tyre has been freed by quick thinking RSPCA staff .
A diving guide leaves a shark completely docile and balanced in the palm of his hand .
With an abandoned tricycle sitting in an empty corridor, this derelict but once grand mansion could be the setting for The Shining .
FINALLY catching a meal, a pair of great white egrets fight over their dinner .
PAWS for thought as you feast your eyes on this rare bear bathing session .