One of Britain’s leading diving coaches has been given an eight-month jail sentence for a series of sex offences.
Michael Edge, 51, was found guilty on ten counts of sexual assault committed against three teenage girls between 1994 and 2000.
Edge was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for ten years for the crimes which took place during warm-up exercises.
His employer, Sheffield City Council, has suspended Edge while it carries out an inquiry into his offences.
Edge, who coaches the British Olympic squad, denied the charges.
His victims, the youngest of whom was 14 when she was first assaulted, said the coach touched them intimately during their exercises.
John Mothersole from Sheffield City Council said after Tuesday’s verdict: “We will examine very seriously Michael Edge’s position as a council employee.
“Under the council’s procedures he will remain suspended until a decision is made otherwise.”
Alan Jones, chair of the area child protection committee, said: “We welcome the judgement of the court and reiterate our commitment to protecting children.
“Our member organisations have very clear policies and employees are expected to adhere to them and to the law.
“Misdemeanours in this area will not be tolerated.
“We are confident the vast majority of Sheffield’s sport and fitness professionals are genuinely committed to supporting people to reach their potential and that they do this with respect and courtesy.”
