A scrap metal dealer has been jailed for repeatedly sexually assaulting a teenage girl.

Mark Rumbol attacked a girl under the age of 15 on numerous occasions between 2020 and 2021.

A police officer said he subjected his victim to “devastating harm” for his own gratification.

Sussex Police Detective Constable Julie Leseure said: “Mark Rumbol subjected his victim to appalling crimes for his own gratification, with no regard for the devastating harm they caused.

“She has shown incredible courage and determination to report the abuse and support this investigation through to its conclusion.

“Thanks to her bravery, Rumbol is now behind bars where he can cause no further harm.

“If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual offences, please report it to police online or via 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”

Rumbol, 58, from Wales, was arrested in March 2021 in Rustington after his victim reported her abuser to the police.

He was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of inciting a girl to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity.

Rumbol was also charged with rape but was found not guilty by a jury in Lewes Crown Court in January.

Rumbol was sentenced to 11 years in jail and given a restraining order and Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

He will also be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.