A VILE rapist who carried out horrific sex attacks on several women has been caged for 10 years.

Neil Kane, 54, appeared at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday where he was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after being found guilty of a number of serious sexual assaults on women in the Inverclyde area.

Kane was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow on December 18 for seven serious sexual offences on three women.

The crimes took place in the Inverclyde area between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2010.

Detective Constable Stewart Fleming, from Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Division, said: “Kane was a violent individual who over several years carried out horrific sex attacks on three women.

“Kane is facing justice as a direct result of the bravery of his victims. The crimes occurred across a 15 year period and Police Scotland are absolutely committed to helping victims of sexual crime and bringing those responsible to justice. This case in particular showed that crimes committed years ago are still fully investigated and treated with the upmost importance. It is never too late to come forward.

"I would like to thank the victims for their bravery in what must have been a daunting task to report him to police, and then have the courage to provide their evidence in court. My thoughts remain with the victims and their loved ones. I hope that Kane’s sentencing can bring then some comfort.

"We are committed to supporting victims of sexual crimes and investigating those responsible, regardless of when the crimes took place. No matter how much time has passed, any victims of crime can be assured of being fully supported by officers and our partner agencies.”

Anyone with information or concerns about sexual crime can contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.