Ex-pastor faces jail at Belfast Magistrates Court for indecently assaulting girls

A FORMER youth pastor indecently assaulted three schoolgirls while staying overnight at their homes more than 30 years ago, a Belfast court has heard.

Paul Gardiner, from Cusher Road in Markethill, abused the girls, who were aged seven, nine and 14, between 1978 and 1980.

The 52-year-old gospel singer made contact with his victims’ families through a Newtownabbey church, before he began living at their homes.

On Tuesday, Belfast Magistrates’ Court heard details of how Gardiner was caught coming out of one of the victim’s bedroom with his trousers down, after the girl shouted out.

Last month, Gardiner pleaded guilty to 13 counts of indecent assault.

He was remanded in custody on Tuesday ahead of his sentencing on Friday.