A former Dundee Lord Provost has spoken out about sexual abuse he endured in his childhood — and says he has finally broken his silence in an effort to encourage other assault victims to come forward.
John Letford, who served as civic leader between 2001-2012, had kept the abuse secret for over 70 years.
However, he has decided to discuss the ordeal in a new autobiography after a rape crisis expert said it could help others who have suffered from similar experiences.
He has described the “vivid” ordeal in which he was attacked by a sadistic disabled neighbour in Aberdeen at the age of seven in Fae the Boatyaird to Buckingham Palace, a new autobiography.
He said: “I remember the incident very clearly, as though it was only yesterday. I was seven years old at the time when I was sexually and physically abused by one of our neighbours.
If other people could come forward and speak about this because I have inspired them to do so, I will be very happy.
“I remember the toilet and the stairs and the building very clearly.
“He gave me a bag of sweets before he did it. I remember he had pins — dressmaker’s pins. I remember the feeling of them on by back end.
“The man was caught in the act. I think people must have heard me shouting or something and came running and they dealt with the man.
“When they read this, my children will be shocked, but when you’ve bottled something like that up for more than 70 years, it’s not easy to let it go.”
The 81-year-old said he would be pleased if the book helped others to speak out.
“I spoke to a woman, who is a rape crisis expert, and works with children and women who have suffered in that way.
“She said to me that if I could speak out and tell my story it could have a hugely beneficial effect for other people who have suffered a similar experience.
“If other people could come forward and speak about this because I have inspired them to do so, I will be very happy.
“It might give them a sense of relief and acceptance to talk as I have done.”
Anyone affected by any of the themes in this story can contact several organisations for support and advice.
18 and Under can be contacted confidentially via text or Whatsapp on 07707 531976, or by phone on 0800 7314080.
ChildLine can be reached 0800 1111. The NSPCC can offer advice to adults concerned about a child’s welfare on 0808 8005000.
Adults affected by abuse in childhood can contact the NAPAC on 08088 010331.
