A former Enfield football coach has been jailed after having a sexual relationship with a teenage girl.

Daniel Moss, of Dacres Gate in Ongar, was sentenced to 16 months’ prison after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a trusted position.

The 32-year-old previously admitted having a sexual relationship with a student who attended Lea Valley Academy – where he was director of a football education programme.

As well as setting up the programme he was a coach and mentor for the students – a position he used to encourage the relationship when she turned 16.

Moss had known her for a number of years and manipulated her to keep it hidden. 

Enfield Independent: Former Enfield football coach Daniel Moss has been jailed. Picture: Met Police.Former Enfield football coach Daniel Moss has been jailed. Picture: Met Police.

The offences, which happened several years ago, came to light after concerned friends alerted school staff.

Detective Sergeant Virginia Condren said: "The evidence against Moss proved he took advantage of a young girl and her family’s trust.

“She had put him up on a pedestal and her vulnerabilities meant he was able to isolate her and make her depend on him.

“He has deceived and devastated those closest to him, those who looked up to him and trusted him.”

DS Condren continued: “He was deemed to be trustworthy by those who worked with him and as such he was able to get away with his criminal behaviour.

“It was the victim's friends who became concerned and they were particularly brave in bringing the matter to the attention of the authorities."

She hailed the victim’s “phenomenal” courage and said she has been supported by friends, family and police.

As well as 16 months’ prison Moss was placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for 10 years and has been barred from working with children.

Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh added: "Many of those who suffer at the hands of those in a position of trust are too frightened or manipulated to bring their abuse to the notice of authorities.

"If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, or if you have any information about an offender, please contact police or a responsible person. You will be given every possible support by specially trained officers."