A South Hams man has been jailed for eight years for raping a terrified woman in Wales.

Ben Byrne, of Crowder Park, South Brent, was found guilty of assault by beating, criminal damage, controlling and coercive behaviour and rape.

The 36-year-old was locked up by Judge Jeremy Jenkins at Cardiff Crown Court.

Sgt Rosie Vincent, of Gwent Police, praised his victim for coming forward.

She said: “The person that suffered at the hands of this perpetrator has shown incredible courage in reporting the offences.

“Controlling and coercive behaviour leaves people living in fear but in this case, the aggrieved bravely made a decision to come to the police and seek help.

“The sentence passed by Judge Jenkins reflects the seriousness of the crime and importantly the perpetrator has an indefinite restraining order protecting those affected.”