Grandfather-of-four George Harding, 65 at the time of his trial, who sat on the Council's Children's Services Committee, molested two girls while he was babysitting them. Bolton Crown Court heard that one of the girls, now an adult, told how Harding devised a past-time called 'The Game' during which he assaulted her.

Harding, described in court as a churchgoer, admitted two charges of indecent assault on a 10-year-old girl. He also pleaded guilty to one charge of indecent assault and one of committing an act of indecency with another 10-year-old girl. The offences took place between January 1983 and December 1986.

David Riddell, prosecuting, said one girl contacted police after seeing press coverage of a trial in 1999 when Harding was accused of indecent assault. He was cleared of those charges. He served as a Labour councillor for Benchill from 1994 before resigning in 1999 after allegations were made against him.

Defending, Anthony Longworth said Harding "was a man who had dedicated his life to public service." Longworth added "But, He abused his position of trust and abused two little girls aged 10. He accepts that and is deeply ashamed."

Judge John Roberts jailed Harding for six months and told him "his crime was a breach of trust." He described Harding as devoted to public service, but said "You have lost your previous good character."

Judge John Roberts jailed Harding for six months and told him "your crime was a breach of trust." He described Harding as devoted to public service, but said "You have lost your previous good character."

Harding was also ordered to sign the sex offenders' register.