Rape of a young child and sexual activity with the same victim.

Matthew Lovage, 27, of Sir Bernard Paget Avenue, Repton Park, was found guilty of rape and sexual activity with a young child at Canterbury Crown Court.

Lovage began shaking and breathing heavily, unbuttoned his shirt and clutched his chest as the verdict was read. He was given half an hour to recover before learning he would face a lengthy prison sentence.

The charges stemmed from allegations reported by an Ashford children's nursery. Lovage denied the offenses.

The victim, who gave evidence via CCTV from a special room in the courtroom during the three-day trial, was a young child.

The sentencing hearing was adjourned for five weeks while reports are prepared to assess the danger Lovage poses to children.

Lovage's lawyer, Kieran Moroney, did not apply for bail. Judge Heather Norton ordered Lovage to sign the sex offender register.

Mr. Moroney stated that Lovage had an undiagnosed medical problem and was undergoing medical tests.

Judge Norton told Lovage, "You should prepare yourself for a custodial sentence – and one of some considerable length."