A Bamber Bridge man who raped a woman while she slept has been given a sentence totalling 14 years.

After committing the offence, Ashley Iddon, 29, then bombarded his victim with messages, some blaming her for his actions.

When police arrested him, Iddon admitted what he had done to work colleagues, telling one ‘she made me do it’.

Iddon, of Well Orchard, pleaded guilty to rape when he appeared in the dock at Preston Crown Court on the day he was due to stand trial.

Yesterday (Monday 5 December), Judge Heather Lloyd deemed Iddon to pose a significant risk to women and sentenced him to 11 years custody, with a three-year extended licence period. He was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life. An indefinite restraining order was also imposed.

Following sentence, the victim stated she was pleased she could finally move on from this and believed that Iddon has received the sentence he deserved. She said the whole thing has caused her distress for a number of years, so it is comforting for her to know it is finally over. She said her and her family can now live comfortably knowing Iddon is finally in prison.

DC Rebecca Pugh, of South CID, said: “Iddon is a dangerous man who has warped and appalling attitudes towards women. That is demonstrated by his attempts to justify his abhorrent actions to work colleagues by blaming the victim.

“I am pleased with the sentence handed down by the court which reflects the seriousness of Iddon’s offending. Even after he is released, Iddon will continue to be monitored by the relevant authorities.

“We are committed to protecting women and girls from all forms of abuse and violence. I hope this case and its outcome will encourage other victims to come forward, knowing they will be listened to and believed and that we will do everything in our power to put their abuser before the courts.”

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