Cold Case police team snare rapist from 1981

Christopher Sykes (46) will be sentenced next month after South Yorkshire Police’s Cold Case Team re-opened the case last year.

Sykes’ DNA was traced back to the attack on October 19, 1981, where he raped the 16-year-old when she was making her way home from Kimberworth after a night with friends.

At approximately 11pm on that night the girl was forced to walk home after the the bus service she wanted had been cancelled.

When walking along Canklow Road, Sykes walked past her and then turned to follow.

His change of direction caused the girl to quicken her pace. He caught up with her and grabbed her from behind, dragging her to some scrubland at the side of the road where he attacked her.

Det Sgt Ian Harding, who leads the Maltby-based team, said: "I am aware of the devastating effect the attack has had on this lady.

"We wish her the very best and hope that Sykes' conviction helps her to face the future with more confidence.

"This is another great result which brings the total to 10 rapists and one murderer, brought to justice by the Cold Case Team."

Sykes will be sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on Tuesday, September 14.