A MAN who carried out a “gratuitous and sustained” physical and sexual attack on a woman was jailed for ten years and six months.

Shaun Anthony Brian Jackson carried out the prolonged attack over several hours while heavily under the influence of alcohol.

Durham Crown Court heard that he repeatedly physically assaulted the victim, who was said to have genuinely feared she was going to be killed.

Jackson, 46, of Sunnybrow, near Willington, admitted unlawful and malicious wounding, plus rape.

Rupert Doswell, prosecuting, said the violence began when he head butted the woman, followed by kicks and punches, and culminated in the rape.

She was admitted to hospital for treatment for multiple injuries, including lacerations, bruising and swellings to her jaw and forearm, although there were no fractures.

Mark Styles, for Jackson, told the court: “There’s not a huge amount to be said on his behalf in the circumstances.

“Unfortunately, he lost his temper, he says because she had been using amphetamines.

“The tragedy of it is that it took place after a period of considerable stability.”

Jailing Jackson, Recorder Tahir Khan told him: “You used wholly gratuitous violence.”

Jackson was made subject of a sexual offences prevention order, “until further notice”, and must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.