June 2022

National gymnastics coach Stuart Woods jailed for sex offences

A national gymnastics coach has been jailed after being found guilty of sexual offences against children.

Stuart Woods, of Wellington Road, Sandhurst, was found guilty by a unanimous jury of two counts of sexual activity with a child, and three counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child.

The offences involved three victims who were children.

The 34 year old was found guilty at a trial that concluded on August 12, 2021, and was today sentenced at Reading Crown Court to 11 years in prison.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Sukhpreet Singh of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said: “Woods used his position of influence to groom his victims.

“This led to Woods sexually abusing a child and abusing two other children by sexual communication for his own sexual gratification.   

“Woods was supposed to be someone who was supportive and someone for children to rely on, however his conviction and sentencing shows he is a dangerous and predatory paedophile.

“I would like to pay tribute and commend the victims for coming forward which has led to Woods being jailed and means he is no longer a threat to children.”

Woods will serve half of his sentence in jail and the other half on licence.

He has been made subject to a 20 year sexual harm prevention order and restraining order. He must also sign the sex offenders register for life.