Oswestry rape victim praised for coming forward

The woman has been hailed for her courage that helped bring to justice Long, who was jailed for 15 years on Friday.

Officers have said they hope the case and sentence will send out a strong message to victims of rape and sexual assault that their cases will be taken seriously by police.

Long raped and assaulted his victim as she walked home on the B5069 between Oswestry and Morda in the early hours of New Year's Day.

Shrewsbury Crown Court had previously heard how Long had targeted his victim after spotting her enjoying a night out with friends.

Long, 32, of Melverley near Oswestry, had previously changed his plea of not guilty the day before he was due to stand trial at the crown court in July. He admitted rape, attempted rape, and two charges of assault.

While sentencing Long, Judge Robin Onions said DNA evidence had always been "overwhelming" and said Long "never had a defence".

Long will serve 11 years and eight months in jail and will be on extended licence for another three years and four months. He will also remain on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Davies, of West Mercia Police who led the investigation, said: "This was a horrific attack. Howard Long targeted the victim as she made her way home after a night out in Oswestry with friends and proceeded to violently assault her.

"I would like to praise the courage of the victim in coming forward and reporting this attack, helping us to ensure the man responsible was brought to justice."

During Friday's court hearing, Judge Onions also praised a woman who answered the door to the victim at about 3.30am following the attack and immediately raised the alarm.

He said he would recommend the woman for a High Sheriff's commendation.