A MAN who systematically sexually abused two girls for up to two decades was yesterday jailed for seven years.

Durham Crown Court heard that Michael Marriott may have left the two victims permanently psychologically scarred.

The court was told the cycle of abuse began when one was four and continued until she was in her early 20s.

Marriott, 52, described as "bullying and domineering", carried out the abuse while working as a driver and living at up to 25 different addresses across the country, including Hampshire and Devon, but mostly in County Durham.

The history of abuse, believed to have continued from November 1974 until 2003, was reported to police in 2004.

Euan Duff, prosecuting, said that, at the time, Marriott said he would admit everything or kill himself.

"In reality, he denied it completely. It left the injured parties utterly devastated, suicidal. One has severe gynaecological problems, and feels she can't have a normal sexual relationship."

Mr Duff said the other victim is now in a relationship with another woman.

Marriott, most recently of Lincoln Drive, Willington, County Durham, admitted 22 counts of indecent assault at an earlier date.

The hearing was adjourned for preparation of probation and psychiatric reports.

Alexia Zimbler, for Marriott, told yesterday's sentencing hearing: "He's remorseful, but he can't turn the clock back, even though he wishes he could."

Jailing him for seven years, with an extended licence period for ten years, Judge Peter Armstrong also ordered a limitless Sexual Offences Prevention Order forbidding him working with and restricting contact with anyone aged under 16, while he must also sign the sex offenders' register for life.