A 51-year-old man who was warned to expect a long prison sentence for repeatedly raping a girl over a four-year period had his sentencing adjourned until next month.

George Leadbitter, of Grayswood Crescent, Holme Wood, Bradford, was remanded back into custody at Bradford Crown Court yesterday, to be sentenced on January 7.

Judge John Potter said the case had been due to be heard today, Friday, but he would not be sitting at court for personal reasons.

Leadbitter has previously pleaded guilty to four offences of raping a girl between 2005 and 2009.