Man raped woman as she slept after New Year celebrations

David Bird, 21, was convicted by a jury at Shrewsbury Crown Court yesterday following a four-day trial. Bird took advantage of the woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, after she went to bed intoxicated two years ago.

Recorder Martin Jackson adjourned sentence for reports which will include an assessment as to whether Bird should be considered a dangerous offender.

Sentence will be heard at Worcester Crown Court on February 10. The defendant was warned that he faces a substantial prison sentence.

Bird, of The Trench, near Ellesmere, was remanded in custody. The jury heard that the incident happened at a house party.

Miss Rebecca Wade, prosecuting, said Bird took advantage of the victim while she was asleep after seeing the New Year in at a pub. The woman was in an intoxicated state and was put to bed at a flat and when she and the defendant were alone the attack happened.

Giving evidence the woman said that she had been asleep and had woken to find Bird on top of her and that she had tried to push him away.

Bird had denied the rape allegation.