A FORMER soldier who raped a young girl and sexually abused another in Ayrshire has been jailed for six years.

Michael Turnbull preyed on his victims before being brought to justice after a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.

The crimes occurred between 2011 and 2020, mainly in Kilwinning.

The 25 year-old, of Paisley, was found guilty of raping the first girl and sending sexual communications to her on various occasions.

Turnbull was further convicted of engaging in sexual activity with the other victim and sending indecent messages to her on social media.

He was sentenced today (Friday, March 17), at the High Court in Glasgow.

Lady Stacey remarked Turnbull had previously served his country in the army for two years and also maintained his innocence for the crimes.

Referring to the first girl, the judge told Turnbull: "What you did causes a lack of self-esteem as well a huge burden of worry and concern.

"I have read her victim impact statement and it sets out clearly the effect the abuse has had on her."

Lady Stacey said the charges involving the second girl - although not as frequent - remained "serious".

Turnbull was also put on the sex offenders list indefinitely.