Michael John Worton (b. 30/12/1951) of Moss Colliery Road, Swinton, has been sentenced to three years in prison and three further years on license after being found guilty by jury of 16 offences at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on Tuesesday 4 November 2025. He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The conviction follows disclosures from five courageous victim-survivors who came forward to report abuse they experienced as children during the 1970s and 1980s, when Worton worked on a farm and in a children’s home.
These men have carried the trauma of their experiences into adulthood and have shown immense bravery in helping bring Worton to justice.
The investigation revealed that Worton abused his position of trust to target vulnerable children in settings where they should have felt safe. We are also reviewing previous related investigations to ensure all non-recent offences are fully identified and addressed.
At his court appearance, Worton denied all charges and went to trial. He showed no remorse in court throughout the course of the two weeks and was subsequently found guilty by jury of the following 16 offences: five counts of indecent assault, three counts of indecency with a child, and eight counts of indecent assault on a male person.
We believe that there are other victims that were sexually abused by Worton, and officers are appealing for anyone who may have been subjected to sexual abuse by him, or who may have any information, to please come forward and help us with our enquiries.
Detective Constable Nathan Roscoe, from GMP Salford district, said: “It’s with thanks to the great bravery of these victim-survivors in coming forward and disclosing the abuse they were subjected to that we have been able to bring this despicable man to some long-awaited justice.
“Worton preyed on vulnerable young children while he worked in positions of trust in the local community. He should be ashamed of himself, and that shame lies solely with him.”
Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood, district commander for Salford, said: “I pay tribute to the victims in this case for their courage to ensure Worton is finally behind bars.
“We believe there may be further witnesses and victims in relation to this investigation and want to take this opportunity to appeal for them to please come forward.
“Whether it be abuse against the children of today or yesterday, our specialist officers are determined to make child sexual abusers ultimately face justice for the harm they have inflicted.
“You will be believed no matter the passage of time, and we will listen to you and work with you at a pace that is best for you. We have specialist officers who can support you and help you through the process.”
Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Remember – if in doubt report it
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
– Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
– Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
– Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.
