MARK DAVIS FROM BERROW SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT NEAR BERROW FARM

In a case that has drawn significant attention from the local community, Mark Davis, a 45-year-old farmer from Berrow, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl and has been subsequently placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years.

The incident occurred on the evening of May 18, when Davis, who knew the girl, beckoned her over in a nearby lane just after 7 pm. According to the prosecution, Teresa Perry, the magistrate overseeing the case, explained that the girl and Davis exchanged greetings when she saw him. Moments later, Davis indicated that he wanted to show her something, prompting her to approach him.

As she drew closer, Davis reportedly grabbed her by the arms, kissed her fully on the lips, held her briefly, and then instructed her to go into a barn. The girl was visibly upset and worried during the encounter, and she expressed her distress, stating that she said no and was in a highly emotional state when she reported the incident to authorities.

Following Davis's arrest, police conducted an interview during which he appeared to have limited memory of the event. He acknowledged knowing the girl and was aware of her age but chose not to comment further. Davis pleaded guilty to the charge of sexual assault on July 15. In his plea, he denied asking her into a barn, a detail that the Crown did not accept.

Defense lawyer Lloyd Jenkins stated that Davis, who resides at Kings Green, Berrow, fully accepted that he had grabbed and kissed the girl but insisted he did not invite her into a barn near his home. Jenkins emphasized Davis's willingness to pay compensation and highlighted his demanding work schedule, which involves working 70 to 80 hours a week on the farm. Despite his long hours, Davis does not draw earnings, and his family’s income is limited. Jenkins noted that Davis is prepared to comply with a nine-month supervision order but warned that his work commitments might occasionally cause him to miss some sessions.

An application for a sexual offences prevention order was withdrawn by the Crown during the proceedings. In addition to the primary sentence, Davis was ordered to pay £85 towards prosecution costs and a £60 victim surcharge. The identity of the victim remains confidential due to legal restrictions, and her name cannot be published to protect her privacy.