FOR many years, David Bryant has been considered a hero in Christchurch, so much so that he was made an honorary alderman.

Yesterday, the retired firefighter was led away from the dock in Bournemouth Crown Court to begin a six-year jail sentence.

He has been found guilty of raping a man at Christchurch fire station nearly 40 years ago.

Much has changed in the criminal justice system in the past couple of years – the high profile cases currently being heard are testament to that.

It’s clearer than ever now that justice will prevail, even if it takes decades to do so.