A RAPIST who manipulated a girl into having sex with him by pretending to be a ghost has been jailed for 26 years.

Liam Clarke knew she was terrified of evil spirits and used that to exploit her, a court heard.

Clarke, 35, has now been sentenced after being found guilty of 16 offences including the rape of a child, sexual assault and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Judge David Evans said: "Your offending across the years was monstrous."

Clarke committed the offences against children in Southampton, Torquay and Crediton between 1997 and 2016.

Exeter Crown Court heard how Clarke's victim was petrified of the occult following a bad experience during an Ouija board game.

Pretending to be the spirit, he made threats to the teenager and told her the only way of getting rid of the demon was by having sex with him.

Clarke, of Joseph Lock Way in Crediton, Devon, was arrested in July 2017 and has now been sentenced to 26 years' imprisonment with an additional two-year extended licence.

DC Katy King, of the public protection unit in Exeter, said: “This has been a long and complex investigation involving historical sexual abuse over a number of years by Clarke.

“It has been an extremely traumatic and emotional time for all three victims. He has been on remand since July 2017 and this result finally provides these vulnerable victims with some closure.

“They have shown resilience and patience throughout the investigation. It is hoped that they can draw strength from the verdict and can live knowing that they have done everything they can to help protect others.

“We wish to thank everyone who has worked hard in achieving this justice.”

Victims of non-recent sexual abuse can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or via help@nspcc.org.uk