A HALTWHISTLE man has been jailed after admitting raping a child under 13. 

On Tuesday, John McDonald (72) was sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court to seven years in prison, with a one-year extended licence period.

McDonald, of High Ridley, must also register as a sex offender and abide by the terms of a sexual harm prevention order for life.

Following the sentencing, an NSPCC spokeswoman said: “The trauma caused by rape is unimaginable, and it is vital that this brave young girl now receives all of the support she needs to rebuild her life. 

“It is vital that anyone who has been sexually abused can speak out in the knowledge they will be listened to.

"Children can contact Childline, 24/7, on 0800 1111 or online, to talk about anything that’s worrying them. Adults wishing to report abuse, or concerns about the wellbeing of a child, can phone the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 8005000.”