A former royal navy sailor from Plymouth accused of sexual activity with an under age girl has been found not guilty.

A teenage girl had claimed 49 year old Mark Butler sexually abused her over a period of more than a year.

Mr Butler from Lipson denied all the charges against him - he claimed the girl had invented the story either for financial gain or to get attention.

He admitted that he gave her lifts on occasions, gave and lent her money, and used to swap text messages with her.

But he denied that there was anything sexual or improper in their relationship.

Mr Butler was acquitted at Plymouth Crown Court.That report was filed by the Herald.

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