A Canterbury man described as 'domineering and manipulative' has been jailed for 10 years for rape, sexual assault and false imprisonment.

American Gerald Wennerstrom, 62, appeared for sentence at Canterbury Crown Court having been convicted after a trial of attacking a woman last year.

Judge Adele Williams told Wennerstrom of Moat Lane, Ash, he had shown no remorse or insight into his behaviour.

"I have seen and heard you give evidence and in my judgement you are a domineering and manipulative man."

She said Wennerstrom had caused his victim some physical injuries, but the emotional damage he caused was far greater.

"While I take the view that you pose some risk in the future to women, I do not take the view that you pose a significant risk of causing serious harm in the future," added Judge Williams.

Patrick Ryan, for Wennerstrom - who had no previous convictions, said he had missed a year in his children's lives since being in custody and faced deportation to America when released.

"He has trained as a prisoner listener and done a three week course organised by the Samaritans and now offers his time for the benefit of other prisoners, those who are particularly vulnerable and feeling the stresses and strains of prison life.

"I ask the court to keep the sentence as low as possible," he said.

The court directed the 328 days Wennerstrom has been in custody count towards his sentence.

He will be on the sex offenders register indefinitly.