The bravery of a victim to come forward and report sexual abuse has led to a 12-year prison sentence for a man from Hollingbourne.

Adrian Hart, 51, will also serve an additional three years on licence under the terms of an extended sentence and will be put on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Between June and August 1999 Hart befriended his victim, who was of secondary school age, and instigated a sexual relationship.

Hart was 32 at the time.

Seven years later he tried to make contact with his victim again via social media. In September 2016 the victim contacted police and reported the abuse.

Hart, of Musket Lane, pleaded guilty to five counts of rape of a child and two counts of indecent assault on a child and was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Investigating officer Det Con, Victoria Carter, said: "I hope Hart's sentence is of some comfort to the victim and her family.

"She showed immense bravery and courage in coming forward and recounting what was an incredibly traumatic time in her life.

"The sentence reflects the seriousness of these offences and the impact they had on those involved.

"I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who has been a victim of abuse, regardless of how much time has passed, that Kent Police will listen and support you throughout the judicial process and beyond."