A man indecently assaulted an Oxford University student at knifepoint, a court heard.

Edward Solomon, 38, grabbed the student as she walked along Banbury Road early on November 8, 1997. He held a knife across her throat and forced her down a side street, Oxford Crown Court heard, before indecently assaulting her.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was traumatised by the ordeal.

Police only recently tracked down Solomon, of Bayswater Road, Barton, Oxford.

He initially pleaded not guilty to a charge of indecent assault, but changed his plea yesterday shortly before the trial was due to start.

Judge Anthony King adjourned sentencing until Wednesday, July 10, for reports to be prepared by the probation service.

He told Solomon: "Only a substantial custodial sentence is in the court's mind at this time."