A MAN has received a substantial prison sentence after raping two women at the Flintshire pub he ran.

Gareth Lambert, now of Moor Lane in Frodsham, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court on Friday morning via video link from HMP Berwyn.

The 31-year-old had been found guilty after a trial of two counts of rape and one of sexual assault.

All three offences happened in 2022 at the Crown and Liver pub in Ewloe, whilst Lambert was the landlord of the establishment.

Michael Whitty, prosecuting, read impact statements from both victims.

Both women spoke of the way Lambert's conduct continues to significantly affect them.

Simon Mintz, defending, said: "I have to say for both rapes, they are very serious offences."

He conceded he had "no effective mitigation" for the offences, given his client's conviction after trial, but explained: "There is some personal mitigation.

"His lack of any relevant previous convictions; he has just one for drink-driving and has kept out of trouble since these offences.

"He was clearly a popular and hard working landlord of a village public house.

"That career is effectively at an end - I can't see him attaining a licence anymore."

Mr Mintz accepted his client, whom he described as "an intelligent young man" faced a lengthy sentence for his crimes.

Chester and District Standard: Gareth Lambert (NWP)Gareth Lambert (NWP) (Image: North Wales Police)Judge Timothy Petts told the defendant: "In both cases you alleged it was fully consensual. The Jury rejected that.

"Both women made it obvious to you that they did not want anything to happen.

"You ignored them.

"You're a sexual predator. You prioritise your sexual desires over the feelings of others.

"At trial, you didn't accept what you did and you don't show any remorse.

"The risk of similar behaviour is, at the moment, uncontained - and that will remain the case until you learn to accept responsibility for what you did."

As such, Judge Petts concluded that to manage the risk Lambert poses to the public, an extended sentence would be necessary.

Overall, the Judge handed down an extended sentence of 24 years - comprising 18 years in custody and six years on extended licence.

Lambert must serve at least two-thirds of the custodial part of the sentence before the parole board considers whether he is safe for release on licence.

Should he breach his conditions following his release on licence, he could be recalled to serve the full 24 years in custody.

The Judge made restraining orders to protect both victims indefinitely.

And Lambert was placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Sergeant Michael Starkey led the investigation for North Wales Police.

Following the sentencing, DS Starkey said: “I commend the courage and bravery shown by both women. Their resilience and strength throughout the process has been crucial in ensuring that Gareth Lambert has been brought to justice.

“North Wales Police are committed to pursuing the most violent and dangerous of offenders against women and girls. I would encourage anyone who is subject to such abuse to contact us. You will be believed, and your information treated in the utmost confidence.”