A 'DESPICABLE' man who sexually assaulted his female victim in an alleyway has been jailed.

Nathan McPoland was sentenced to two years and three months in prison after admitting carrying out the attack between Cavendish Street and Slater Street in Barrow during the early hours of March 9, 2019.

Despite pleading guilty at the Crown Court, McPoland had denied the assault or being in the town centre at all when interviewed by police.

The 23-year-old’s actions have been labelled ‘despicable’ by Hindpool councillor Joanne Tyson.

Cllr Tyson has also praised the victim for speaking out and reporting McPoland to the police.

Cllr Tyson said: “I was disgusted by the sentence given for such a serious crime against this poor woman. She was very brave to come forward and report the crime, and follow through with the process to get this man off the street.

“It was despicable that McPoland initially denied the crime which must have added to the woman’s distress.

“I am glad he has been jailed and I give thanks to the Police for securing the conviction but the sentence is not long enough for something so serious.”

Detective constable Matthew McFall, of Cumbria Crime and Safeguarding team, thanked the victim for coming forward.

He said: “I would like to publicly thank the complainant for coming forward to report this matter to the Police.

“I have no doubt her actions have helped safeguard others.”

McPoland will now also be subject of the sexual offenders’ notification requirements and a restraining order for a period of 10 years.

Cumbria PCC Peter McCall said he was disgusted by McPoland’s crime and hopes his punishment will bring closure to the victim.

Mr McCall said: “I think any type of sexual assault is an appalling crime.

“This sort of sentence should send out a message that sexual assault is unacceptable.

“I am pleased to see a significant sentence for this crime, which I hope brings some sort of closure to the victim.

“I hope that anyone who suffers from sexual assault will come forward to the police as they will take any matter seriously, as shown by the sentencing of this man.”

Mayor of Barrow Cllr Helen Wall said: “It is a deeply unpleasant and upsetting thing to happen to someone – it is very distressing.

“It is not what we want happening in the town and I hope other people will realise it is a criminal offence and you will end up in jail if you do commit sexual assault.

“I am glad that the woman was listened to and police investigated the offence.”