Man jailed for 11 years after raping woman at hotel

A man who raped a woman during a two-hour attack at a hotel has been jailed for 11 years.

Neil Smith, 43, was found guilty of two counts of rape following a trial at Reading Crown Court and sentenced last month.

Smith and his victim, a woman in her 20s, were staying at the Travelodge in Maidenhead together in September 2023. On leaving the hotel, she told staff what happened and they called police. Smith fled but was arrested three days later.

Collette Gray, a police staff investigator at Thames Valley Police, said the woman had shown "remarkable bravery" in reporting Smith, who is from Loughton, Essex.

"Despite an earlier trial being adjourned due to [Smith's] non-appearance, she remained committed to supporting our investigation and ensuring this case was brought before the court," Gray said.

"We are pleased that the court has recognised the significant risk that Smith poses to women, particularly those who are vulnerable.

"We hope this sentence provides the victim with a sense of justice and reassurance, while also protecting others from further harm," she added.