A 66-year-old man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being found guilty of rape and sexual assault.

Gary John Bridger, of Wincanton, Somerset, will also be subject to an extended licence period of a further two years.

He was convicted of two counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court.

His female victim was raped and sexually assaulted at a property in Sherborne.

The incident was reported to police and Bridger was subsequently arrested at around 11.40pm on Thursday, July 7, 2022.

Detective Superintendent Julie Howe, of Dorset Police, said: “Firstly, I would like to praise the victim for the courage she has shown in coming forward to report these offences and for the support she has given throughout the investigation and the court proceedings.

“Bridger behaved in an appalling and detestable manner that showed a complete lack of empathy for the victim. We absolutely will not tolerate violent sexual offences of this nature.

“Dorset Police takes reports of sexual offences very seriously and we are committed to supporting victims, investigating offences and bringing such as Bridger to justice.”

If you have been a victim of rape or sexual assault, and you want to report directly to the police, please call 101 and ask to be put in contact with a specially trained police officer.

Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can contact The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0800 970 9954.