A man who raped a woman in Ormskirk has been jailed.

Joshua Corless, 23, of Wavertree Avenue, Widnes, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court on Friday (April 29) following the attack.

Corless was arrested after the victim, a 19-year-old woman, reported the offence to police.

The victim had been on a night out with friends in the town in January 2020, with Corless joining the group. During the evening the victim became extremely unwell and needed to go home.  

Corless offered to walk with the victim, going to her home address before committing a horrific sex attack.

The victim came forward and reported the incident to police.

Corless was arrested and following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, given summons to appear at court for rape. 

He pleaded guilty during the trial.

Corless was also sentenced for other offences committed in Cheshire.

He was jailed for 13 years and will be placed on the sex offender’s register for life.

Det Sgt Diane Higham, of Lancashire Police, said: “Joshua Corless is a sexual predator who targeted his victim, exploiting her vulnerable nature for his own depraved ends.

“He pursued her, playing on the fact she was unwell to commit a horrendous sex attack. 

“I must thank the victim for her bravery in reporting the offences and facing her abuser through the court process.

"I also wish to place on record my thanks to the investigating officer Det Con Kieran Helps, who fully supported the victim throughout. 

“This investigation highlights our commitment to preventing and detecting offences of rape and serious sexual assault. We want victims to feel confident that they will be treated with compassion and that we will do everything possible to trace those responsible and take action against them.

“I’d like to offer reassurance that any reports of sexual offences, new or old, will be dealt with sensitively, thoroughly and professionally, with the interests of the victims and their families being our priority.”