A FORMER pub landlord has been put behind bars for almost two decades for raping two women.

Gareth Lambert, of Frodsham and who has worked in pubs in Runcorn, has been jailed after being convicted of two counts of rape and one of sexual assault.

The 31-year-old was found guilty by jurors following a trial at Caernarfon Crown Court, and he appeared back at the same court to face sentence on Friday, via video link from HMP Berwyn.

The offences occurred in early 2022, when Lambert ran the Crown and Liver public house in Ewloe, in Flintshire in Wales, as the landlord.

Lambert was arrested following reports from two female victims that he had committed sexual offences against them at the venue.

In sentencing, judge Timothy Petts said: “Both women made it obvious to you that they did not want anything to happen. You ignored them.

“You are a sexual predator. You prioritise your sexual desires over the feelings of others.”

Lambert, now of Moore Lane in Frodsham, was sentenced to 18 years in prison, with a further six years to be served on extended supervision.

He must serve at least two-thirds of the custodial sentence before his case is judged by the parole board whether it is safe for him to be released.

In addition, the court ordered the defendant to sign the sex offender register for life and abide by indefinite restraining orders to protect both victims.

The sentence handed down by the court was welcomed by DS Michael Starkey, who led the investigation for North Wales Police.

He 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.

“The 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.”