A RETIRED vicar has been cleared of raping a schoolgirl more than 40 years ago.

Frederick Williams, 74, of Central Street, Ludgershall, stood trial this week at Salisbury Crown Court and faced two charges of rape, indecent assault, and indecency with a child under 14.

All the charges, which he denied, related to the same alleged victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

The jury has acquitted him of all the charges this afternoon.

Judge Andrew Barnett, addressing Mr Williams, said: "The jury have aquitted you on all counts. You are free to go and leave the court without any stain on your character."