A man who indecently assaulted and attempted to rape a young girl has been jailed for nine years.

Ian Alan Ward, 49, abused the same girl over a three year period when she was between 12-year-old and 15.

He was sentenced following a three week trial at Croydon Crown Court for nine indecent assaults and the attempted rape of the girl.

All were committed in the Crawley area between 1998 and 2002.

Ward, of Tangmere Road, Crawley, will be required to register as a sex offender for life on his release.

In sentencing him, Her Hon Judge Downing commended the victim for her courage in coming forward and for her composure when giving evidence.

Detective Constable Lindsay Russell added: "She bravely gave evidence at court and we were glad to be able to help her see justice done.

“This case illustrates the way in which we will always take such reports seriously, working with victims to help ensure they receive appropriate support and that cases are brought to trial where the evidence justifies it and in the public interest."