Man jailed for raping 71-year-old

A man has been sentenced to at least five-and-a-half years in prison for the knifepoint rape of a 71-year-old retired teacher in Wiltshire.

Michael Alcock, 27, of Bridgend, south Wales, was found guilty of raping the mother-of-three when he appeared at Swindon Crown Court on 26 June.

Alcock had asked the woman for a lift before pulling a knife on her.

Judge Douglas Field placed him on the sex offenders register for an indefinite period.

Speaking after the case, Det Insp Matt Davey from Wiltshire Police said: "We hope that today's result will help give the victim and her family some peace of mind.

"This was a despicable attack.

"I'd like to pass thanks to the victim who showed great courage and fortitude in coming forward and providing compelling evidence in court."

Alcock was given an indeterminate term of imprisonment - but won't be considered for parole for at least five and a half years.