A Charlton man has been jailed for ‘horrendous’ sex attacks against two young women.

Christopher Allan, 40, was found guilty last Thursday at Woolwich Crown Court of the attempted rape and indecent assault of two women.

Allan attacked his first victim – a 16 year old – as she walked home in Blackheath at around 11.20pm on April 30, 2001.

The victim was walking along the street when she realised she was being followed by Allan.

She crossed the road but Allan followed her before he grabbed her from behind and pushed her into the bushes.

He then sexually assaulted her and threatened to kill her if she said anything.

The second offence took place in Greenwich two months later. On June 29, 2001, the victim - a 26-year-old woman - was walking home from work just after 1am when she noticed Allan following her.

She stepped to the side of the path to let him pass but as he did so, Allan grabbed her and pulled her into a front garden.

He sexually assaulted her but was disturbed by a witness and fled the scene.

Despite officers recovering forensic evidence from both scenes, no suspect could be located at the time.

However, in 2014 Allan was arrested following a dispute with a neighbour and his DNA matched sample found at both scenes.

He was charged with both offences but, despite the forensic evidence, pleaded not guilty to the offences.

He was sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment with an extended licence of six years for each attempted rape and ten years' imprisonment with an extended licence of five years for each indecent assault. All sentences will run concurrently.

Detective Constable Nichola Buckley of Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command said:"Despite overwhelming evidence against Christopher Allan, he chose to plead not guilty and put both victims through the ordeal of a trial.

"Although this outcome was some 15 years since the offences, it goes to show that time is no hindrance and the Met will strive to see justice is served."

"Both victims in this case have shown a huge amount of strength throughout this investigation.

“Not only did they have to endure these horrendous attacks in 2001 but they had their lives turned upside down again all these years later upon the arrest and subsequent conviction of Allan.

“I would like to commend them for their bravery and hope that they can feel some closure now justice has been served."

DC Buckley continued: "It cannot be ruled out that Allan has been responsible for other attacks. If anyone thinks they have been the victim of Christopher Allan, please contact police via 101."