A MAN who sexually assaulted a woman has avoided an immediate prison sentence.

Philip Arthur, of Westwood Road, Bemerton Heath, indicated a plea of guilty to a charge of sexual assault which took place in Pewsey between November 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022.

The 67-year-old intentionally touched a woman over the age of 16 sexually without her consent.

Arthur was handed a custodial sentence of four months at Salisbury Magistrates Court on Monday, January 29, but it has been suspended for 24 months.

The court said Arthur's offence was so serious that only a custodial sentence could be justified.

Magistrates took the view that Arthur breached the vulnerable victim's trust in him.

Arthur must complete 60 rehabilitation activity requirement days and register with the police for seven years by visiting the Trowbridge police station.

He was also ordered to pay a £154 surcharge to fund victim services.