A 15-year-old boy who raped two teenage girls faces a long custodial sentence.

A court heard the youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, became remorseful after the second attack and threatened to slash his wrists in front of his 17-year-old victim.

The youth raped the two girls in Eastbourne and was arrested after being identified by his DNA.

The first victim, 15, was followed and attacked as she walked home on May 7.

On October 6 the second victim, 17, was walking home from college when she was targeted.

The youth, from Eastbourne, admitted two charges of rape and two of indecent assault when he appeared at Lewes Crown Court.

Julian Dale, defending, told the court his client accepted he was facing a substantial sentence.

The judge made an order banning the publication of any information which would lead the identity of the youth being reported.

He said he would review the order when the youth was sentenced.

The case was adjourned until January 29 and the youth was remanded in custody.