A rapist who drugged his victim has been warned he faces a significant prison sentence.

Vincent Joseph Hudson, 55, of Loweswater Avenue, Whitehaven, had denied the historic sex attack on a 13-year-old.

But after a trial at Carlisle Crown Court, Hudsonwas convicted of the crime.

There were gasps from the public gallery as the jury foreman delivered a guilty verdict. This was by an 11-1 majority.

Jurors had earlier heard evidence that the victim was raped by Hudson having been given cannabis and a drugged cup of tea.

After the attack, the boy "forced himself" for years to believe the offence had not occurred before eventually telling his mother, jurors heard.

Hudson showed little emotion as the guilty verdict was announced.

He was remanded in custody by Recorder Michael Murray, who asked for a background report to be prepared before he passes sentence.

Hudson is due to learn his fate on May 20.

But Recorder Murray said: "Obviously there has to be a significant custodial sentence."