Croston has been jailed for eight years

A man who raped and sexually assaulted a teenage girl in Ribbleton has been jailed for eight years.

Christopher Croston, 31, formerly of the Netherton area of Liverpool, had pleaded guilty to the rape and sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl.

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She was followed home by Croston as she walked home in Ribbleton in September.

The girl had been out with friends and around 8.10pm on Monday 30 September Croston tried to engage her in conversation.

Croston then dragged the girl down a set of steps on Ribleton Avenue near the RSPCA building, pushed her to the floor and subjected her to a sexual assault before running off in the direction of Ribbleton Hall Drive.

The victim’s mother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: “Knowing that justice has been done and punishment will be served offers some consolation, but what he did to my daughter will live with her and me forever and for that I will never forgive him.”

Lancashire Police traced Croston to an address in Liverpool where he was arrested.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gilbert, of Lancashire’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: “This was a despicable crime committed by a horrible individual. The only positive action by Croston is that he has pleaded guilty to the offences which at least spared his victim having to go through a trial.

“This man has put a young girl through what must have been a terrifying and traumatic ordeal. She has been extremely brave and courageous throughout the investigation and has been supported by her family and specially trained officers. We will continue to offer our support for as long as it is required.”

Croston was sentenced as a dangerous offender and sentenced to 8 years with an extended licence of 4 years. He will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for life.