Woman, 78, wins right to sue rapist who won £7m

A RETIRED teacher has gained legal permission to claim compensation from a serial rapist who won £7 million (€8.8m) on the national lottery in Britain.

A High Court judge said yesterday the 78-year-old woman, Mrs A, can pursue her damages claim against Iorworth Hoare for the psychological injuries she says she suffered after he attacked her in Roundhay Park, Leeds, in 1988.

Hoare, 59, was convicted of attempted rape and jailed for life. He spent 16 years in prison. He had six previous convictions for rape, attempted rape and indecent assault. He bought the winning ticket while on day release in August 2004.