Pensioner jailed for attempting to rape teenager

A pensioner has been jailed for 15 years after being found guilty of attempting to rape a teenage girl.

Kenneth Pickering, 70, of Boston Road, Horncastle, was sentenced on Monday after being convicted of six charges following a trial at Lincoln Crown Court.

They included four offences of assault by penetration, one charge of attempted rape and one offence of sexual assault.

During sentencing, Judge Simon Hirst told Pickering he had used his victim for his "own sexual satisfaction".

An impact statement from the victim, who cannot be named to protect her anonymity, was read out in court by prosecution barrister Jon Dee.

Mr Dee said the victim had been used for Pickering's own selfish needs and felt her childhood had been stolen.

The victim said she still suffered from problems with anxiety and often felt nervous around older men.

Chris Jeyes, mitigating for Pickering, told the court he was of previous good character.

Mr Jeyes said references from Pickering's brother and a family friend described the difficulties he suffered after being diagnosed with diabetes and having to give up his driving licence.

Judge Hirst added he was satisfied Pickering's offending had begun when his victim was just 13.

A Sexual Harm Prevention Order was also made on Pickering, which means he can not have any contact with females aged under the age of 17.

He must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

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