A FORMER Herefordshire detective has been cleared of sexually assaulting and attempting to kidnap a 13-year-old girl.

The jury of seven women and four men today took less than two hours to unanimously find Geoffrey Alan Gough not guilty of one charge of sexual activity with a child.

Judge Martin Picton had previously directed the jury to record a not guilty verdict for the other charge of attempted kidnap earlier in the trial.

Mr Gough, of Spring Gardens, Malvern, said he was very relieved it was finally all over outside Gloucester Crown Court.

"It has been a nightmare," he told reporters.

He also thanked his wife for all her help.