Sisters assaulted and abused by their father TWO sisters who were sexually and physically abused by their father say they wish he was dead.

Heather West and Christina Western were assaulted and abused as children.

They’ve waived their anonymity to tell how the violent episodes wrecked their lives.

And they’re angry that Gerald Longman, 78, of Manor Fields, Bridport, has escaped punishment.

They are also taking legal action against him in an attempt to force him to pay compensation, which could total over £100,000.

A judge said as the law stands he is unable to punish Longman for his sick crimes dating from more than 50 years ago.

Longman was given an absolute discharge at Taunton Crown Court as he had been deemed unfit to stand trial due to dementia.

Judge Graham Hume Jones said that although he was unfit to stand trial the facts were put before a jury, which deemed him guilty of four indecent assaults, two rapes and inciting a girl under 14 to carry out an indecent act.

The judge said: “It's most unfortunate there’s nothing I can do in the circumstances.

“I have no doubt that all those who are listening to this case will keep a very close eye on the defendant.”

Addressing Longman’s sobbing victims in the public gallery, he added: “I’m very sorry at the way this case has happened and ended.

“I hope it brings you closure to help you with the rest of your lives.”

A probation report said Longman, was judged to be a low risk of reoffending because of his age and mental condition.

But his victims have voiced concerns about his access to children and future behaviour.

Heather said: “Your dad’s the person you’re supposed to look up to and trust, to guide you through life, but mine’s a violent, evil, twisted dirty old man.

“I hate him. I was two when it started and remember crying when he abused me.

“He said he hated me and I had the buckle end of the belt and the slipper.

“I used to feel the fear go through me when he came home.

“We wish he was dead.”

Christina was first abused at five after Longman ordered her upstairs.

“When I cried, he rubbed some cream in and carried on,” she said.

“He always told me if I said anything mum would die.”

Both women have had four marriages – Heather, 55, of Wordsworth Drive, Taunton, is currently divorcing again.

They struggled in school, with Christina, 46, of Normandy Drive, unable to read and write until recently. Heather said: “I’m insecure and don’t trust men.” The sisters say they will support victims of abuse who want to contact the police.