Stephen Heap, now of Oldham, was given a 17-year extended sentence for sexually abusing a girl in Wales two decades ago (Image: South Wales Police)

Police have praised the "immense strength, courage and resilience" of a victim of sexual abuse after her attacker was given an extended sentence.

Stephen Heap subjected his young victim to repeated sexual abuse in the Vale of Glamorgan which went unreported at time. The victim came forward to police in 2020 leading to an investigation which saw officers tracing potential witnesses around the UK. For the latest court stories sign up to our crime newsletter

The 58-year-old denied the allegations but was convicted at trial at Cardiff Crown Court of four counts indecent assaults, two sexual assaults, assault of a child by penetration, sexu

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