A MAN cleared of rape has talked of his relief at the verdict.

"It's been an extremely tough year having to live with these false allegations," said Damian McShane.

"I am really pleased with the successful outcome and am glad to put it all behind me so that I can get on with my life."

The 38-year-old from Cleveleys Road in Great Sankey, was cleared of eight allegations by a jury of six men and six women at Warrington Crown Court last week.

He had faced a rape charge, three counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with a child and two counts of cruelty to a child.

He was accused of committing offences against a boy, a girl and a woman. They cannot be identified because of their ages and because of the nature of the allegations.

Mr McShane had no previous convictions and his defence, Simon Berkson, successfully argued he was the victim of a 'set-up'.

"He doesn't know for sure why the prosecution witnesses are lying, but he says they are," said Mr Berkson in his closing speech.

"The defendant works in a caring profession and he clearly has the support of his family."

Mr McShane said: "I want to say a big thanks to friends, neighbours, relatives and my legal team, who have all stood by me throughout this ordeal."