Using conviction data, this article looks at the recidivism experience of 7401 males convicted of a sexual offence in 1973 in England and Wales. General recidivism, sexual recidivism and serious sexual recidivism over a 10 year and a 20 year follow-up period are examined. The article tentatively suggests that 10 year period without a conviction will be sufficient to define desistance for most sexual offenders.