MORE than 100 former residents at a notorious East Yorkshire children's home are to be given their day in court after claiming they were subjected to systematic child abuse.
The victims claim to have been sexually and physically abused at St William's Community Home, a Catholic centre set up to care for society's most vulnerable.
More than 170 people have said they were abused at the home between the 1960s and 1990s and are seeking compensation through the civil courts.
Following a High Court hearing in Leeds, 114 cases can now go ahead.
Caroline Chandler, of Switalskis' Solicitors, which is representing more than 90 claimants, said: "I am really pleased with the outcome of today's hearing.
"It is a step forward towards the settlement of the cases within the group and closure for all those individuals who have made complaints."
The home's former principal, Brother James Carragher, was jailed for seven years in 1993 for his part in the abuse.
A 2001 investigation saw Carragher sentenced to a further 14 years in prison after being found guilty of seven counts of buggery and 14 counts of indecent assault against 22 boys, some as young as 12.
Chief Superintendent Richard Kerman, who investigated Carragher's crimes, described him as "the most evil man I have ever had the misfortune to deal with".
He said: "I never saw a hint of remorse or any kind of apology. All he was bothered about was himself."
Prosecutors are now considering charges against six former members of staff.
The allegations relate to 94 victims, who were not involved in the previous inquiries.
The home was run by Catholic organisation the De La Salle Order of Christian Brothers.
In January, the Supreme Court ruled the Catholic Church and the Brothers were both liable to pay damages to victims.
Speaking at the time, former victim Graham Baverstock said: "I would urge both parties who have been found to be liable in the case to ease the suffering of the victims and recompense the victims speedily without dragging the case on further. The victims have suffered enormously.
"A lot of these victims are getting older and I would hope the Church will, in good faith, bring an end to all this suffering."
At yesterday's hearing, the court- ordered proceedings should go ahead with the aim of reaching settlements between the Church, the brothers and the victims by March next year.
The 114 cases also include victims being represented by Jordans Solicitors.
