A TAXI driver from Somerset has been jailed for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in his cab.

Wayne Gainey, 38, from Christchurch Street East, Frome, was sent down for six years and four months at Swindon Crown Court after pleading guilty to the offence at a hearing last month.

On June 4 last year, Gainey picked up his victim from school in Trowbridge and during the journey home stopped the car and sexually assaulted her in the vehicle before then taking her home.

Following sentencing, Det Con Amy Smith, of Wiltshire Police, who led the investigation, said: "This is a disturbing case of a young girl being sexually assaulted by Gainey who was trusted to collect her from school and take her home safely.

"Instead he used his position to abuse her.

"I welcome the sentencing as it reflects the seriousness of this case.

"I want to thank the victim for being brave enough to come forward and report it in the first place - I hope this can give her some closure so she can get on with her life.

"I want to assure any victim of sexual assault that we will take every case seriously and investigate thoroughly.

"I would encourage anyone who's been a victim, whether recently or not, to report it to us."

To report sexual abuse phone police on 101 or, if you wish to remain anonymous, via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.