A rapist has been jailed after sexually assaulting a young woman.

Mark Cranstoun, from Strood, targeted his victim at his Gun Lane flat just after 11pm on Saturday, July 30, last year.

The incident was reported to police and officers arrested him at his home.

On July 31, Cranstoun was charged with rape and sexual assault.

The 48-year-old was remanded in custody and later pleaded not guilty at Maidstone Crown Court.

He was convicted after a trial and on Wednesday, February 1, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Cranstoun must serve at least eight years before applying for parole and will also be on the sex offenders' register for life.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Kath Lumsden-Earle, said: "Kent Police takes all reports of violence against women and girls seriously and our officers act on information swiftly to seek justice for victims of violent and sexual crimes.

"Mark Cranstoun took advantage of a young woman for his own sexual gratification and his 12-year imprisonment means he can no longer harm anyone else for some considerable time.

"We hope this brings some comfort to the victim and her family."