A judge stressed that women have "an absolute right" to say no to sex in any situation.

Judge Philip Statman made the comment when sentencing a violent pervert to 11 years in jail for rape.

“I make it absolutely clear to you that every woman has an absolute right to say no,” he told Jonathan Goodhew.

“When a woman says no she means what she says. Your personality is such you would not take no for an answer - and that is the tragedy of this case.

“You are to be sentenced for these very grave offences a few days short of your 60th birthday. You have shown in this court from start to finish not a flicker of remorse for that which you have done.”

Goodhew, formerly of Wyatt Street, Maidstone, denied three rape charges but was convicted by a jury.

Prosecutor Oliver Dunkin said Goodhew threatened the victim and was violent to her. He brandished a knife and made threats to kill her.

Judge Statman said: “He is somebody who wanted to have his way, and that’s what he decided to do.”

Ian Foinette, defending, said the father-of-four, now of Taylor Close, St Albans, Hertfordshire, would be “celebrating” his 60th birthday in prison, rather than somewhere else.

He was engaged to a woman who was supporting him, added Mr Foinette.

Judge Statman told Goodhew, who he said had become involved in a drinking culture: “This was persistent, manipulative and violent conduct. Your victim was particularly vulnerable due to her personal circumstances.

“Bravely, she was able to seek out support from the police and others who counsel victims of rape.”

The judge told jurors: “These are very distressing cases.”

Goodhew’s name will appear on the sex offenders’ register for life and he will be barred from working with children and vulnerable adults.