AN 88-YEAR-OLD man has avoided going to jail after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman.

John Blake, of Hendre Close, Monmouth, was convicted of intentionally touching his victim when that touching was sexual and she did not consent to it.

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The offence took place in the autumn of 2019 in Monmouthshire.

Blake had denied the charge.

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He was jailed for 26 weeks, suspended for 24 months.

His sentence was suspended “due to defendant’s age and lack of previous convictions”, Newport Magistrates' Court was told.

Blake was ordered to complete a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement and pay £735 in costs and a surcharge.

He must register as a sex offender for seven years.