A FORMER steelworker has been jailed for 18 years for the rape of a girl.

Stuart Jameson, 53, of Priestman Avenue, Consett, sexually abused the child several times, Durham Crown Court was told.

The court heard the offences had a profound effect on the victim who said he had "taken away her childhood".

Jameson was found guilty after a trial last month of eight offences, including making an indecent image of a child, four counts of rape and two counts of inciting sexual activity.

He was found guilty of another count of inciting sexual activity with a separate victim.

David Callan, who represented Jameson in the hearing said he had been a hard worker, but lost his job in a steel foundry and was previously a man of good character.

Judge Jonathan Carroll said he was to serve at least half of the 18-year stretch in prison and the remainder on licence.

He said: “The impact you have had has been utterly, utterly devastating. You accept no responsibility and have shown no remorse.”

After Jameson was led away, the judge addressed the victim in the public gallery and said: “You have my heartfelt sympathy for what you have gone through.

“It has been a very distressing case.”