A man has been jailed for 15 years after he admitted raping a child.

Robert Spindlow, 56, of Marine Parade, Sheerness pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, one of assault by touching and one of assault by penetration. The charges all related to a girl aged under 13.

A judge at Maidstone Crown Court heard that Spindlow targeted the child on multiple occasions.

The offences came to light when she told an adult about the abuse.

Spindlow admitted all the offences and was sentenced on Friday. He was ordered to serve 15 years, with an additional five years on licence.

Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Richard Brown, said: "This sentence reflects the gravity of the premeditated and targeted vile offences he committed against a vulnerable girl.

"I would like to pay tribute to the child for her courage, strength and determination throughout the investigation and court proceedings and for speaking out and helping to bring Spindlow to justice.

"I’d also like to praise her family who have been a constant support to her throughout this case.

"Kent Police takes all reports of sexual abuse seriously. I would like to assure victims that their reports will be thoroughly investigated and that they will be supported throughout the investigation.

"I would encourage any person who has been a victim of sexual abuse to report this to us regardless of the amount of time which has passed."