A man who raped and sexually assaulted a 17-year-old girl in a Stoke-on-Trent park has been jailed for over a decade.

Jason Heaton, 53, of Hulme, is now serving a 12-year prison term, with an extended licence period of four years, following his sentence at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court today (Friday 9 October).

The victim was walking in Berryhill Fields, off Dividy Road, when Heaton raped and sexually assaulted her.

The incident - which happened on 2 July this year - was reported and Staffordshire Police who said they "quickly linked Heaton to the incident and went out looking for him".

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "He was arrested and tried to tell officers he was innocent.

"But, because of the bravery of the victim and the strength of our evidence, Hulme was left with little choice but to admit the offences in court."

Heaton pleaded guilty to two counts of rape of a woman, attempted rape, causing a person to engage in sexual activity and kidnap.

Detective Constable Samantha Gales, from the Staffordshire Police public protect unit, said: "Despite Heaton's attempts to lie to us when he was first arrested, we've worked tirelessly to ensure he answers to his crimes.

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"I'd like to commend the victim in this case for her resilience and strength in coming forward and supporting this investigation, which has ultimately led to Heaton serving a large part of his life behind bars."

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police added: "If you're a victim of sexual offences and you want to speak to us, please get in touch. Call 101 or report online using our website."