A CAMBRIDGESHIRE man who befriended then sexually assaulted a woman with learning difficulties was jailed for nine years yesterday.

Evan Jeffries, 40, of Tirrington, Bretton pleaded guilty at Peterborough Crown Court on Wednesday to sexual activity with a woman with learning difficulties.

He has been sentenced to serve nine years and a further nine years to run concurrently.

The offence, under section 30 of the Sexual Offences Act, happened on the evening of Thursday, June 2 last year.

The woman, aged 21, had gone into Peterborough city centre around lunchtime when Jeffries approached her. Later that evening he walked her to Morris Street where he sexually assaulted her.

The victim’s family became concerned when she did not arrive home on time and she was found later that night at Peterborough bus station.

Det Sgt Adam Fraser, said: “The family, who wish to remain anonymous, have asked us to convey a message to other careers to be alert to those who may wish to take advantage.

“The victim and her family have been through a terrible time and don’t want this to happen to anyone else.

“Jeffries abused this young woman’s trust in the worst possible way.

“We would like to thank the victim and her family for having the strength to bring this case before the courts.”