A WALNEY teenager accused of a historic rape of a boy under the age of 13 has spoken of his relief at being found not guilty.

Kane Lee Greenwood had always maintained his innocence in relation the alleged offence, which was said to have taken place between October 1, 2014 and June 1, 2015 in Barrow.

Last week, the 19-year-old Furness College student not guilty following a week long trial which had taken place at Burnley Crown Court from Monday, February 12- Friday February 16.

Speaking after the trial, Mr Greenwood said: "Well all I can really say is how nerve-wracking the trial was and in the end having your whole future decided by 12 people you don't know.

Teen to appear in court accused of raping a young boy in Barrow

"It was a very different and scary experience to me."

The Walney resident also praised his family and friends for sticking by him in the months leading up to the five-day trial.

He added: "I want to thank my solicitor from One Legal and my barrister, my intermediary for her support in the court room and I also want to thank my family and friends for never doubting me and staying by me through it all."

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Mr Greenwood had been subjected to months of legal hearings and court appearances, beginning at South Cumbria Magistrates' Court in Barrow back on August 9 in 2017 where he magistrates referred the case to Preston Crown Court.

He then appeared at the Lancashire court on August 25 where the trial date was set for February 12 at Burnley Crown Court.

Mr Greenwood said he would find it very difficult to trust people in the future.

He added: "This has definitely changed how much I trust people.

"I'm going back to normal life now. That's the only way I see it in the long run."