Ex-motorbike racing driver Connor Behan was sentenced to 18 years in prison on Friday after being found guilty of multiple child sexual offences.

The jury heard how the 33-year-old of Heath Avenue, Newcastle-under-Lyme, had sexually assaulted the victim on multiple occasions, starting in May 2019, when the victim was just seven years old.

Behan, who had raced in the Isle of Man TT in 2014 and 2015, was found guilty at Chester Crown Court of multiple rapes of a girl under 13, multiple sexual assaults by touching of a child under 13, and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child on multiple occasions.

Cheshire Police launched an investigation into the abuse in Northwich in October 2022 following a disclosure made by the victim to a teacher at her school.

The detectives who investigated the case hope the sentence will provide closure for the victim.

Detective Constable Georgia Hughes, who led the investigation, said: "I would like to commend the victim for the strength and courage she has shown throughout this case, and I hope the sentence handed to Behan will provide her closure and a chance to move on with her life.

"Behan is a dangerous individual, who sexually abused a little girl for years. He showed no remorse throughout the entire investigation, and even made his victim relive the experiences in court.

"Thankfully, as a result of the evidence gathered and the bravery of the victim, the jury were able to see through his lies and he is now being held accountable for his actions."

As part of the investigation, a seminal detection dog was deployed which found traces of Behan's semen on a blanket owned by the victim.

Behan was arrested and subsequently charged.

DC Hughes added: "Any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority. Victims should never feel ashamed to talk about what they have been subjected to.

"They will receive the help and support they need from our specialist officers, as well as from other support agencies we work alongside, and all victims of sexual offences have the right to anonymity for life."