An alleged rape victim, forced twice to go through the ordeal of being cross-examined in Court, says the legal system has left her life in ruins.

The 30-year-old prostitute, who cannot be named, was made to give evidence twice at Bradford Crown Court after the original jury was discharged.

After taking the witness stand for a second time on Monday the replacement jury was also discharged because of a legal mix-up and the case was thrown out.

Judge Gerald Coles QC said however well another jury was directed an "unjust decision" may well have been reached. In directing not guilty verdicts against Christopher Pedley and Mark Dore, he added evidence from the alleged victim had been "materially different" on two occasions.

The reasons why both trials were halted cannot be revealed as the decisions were taken in chambers.

Mr Pedley, 31, of Greyfriars Walk, Great Horton, Bradford, denied two allegations of rape, one of indecent assault, one of false imprisonment and one of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Mr Dore, 30, of Westlea Avenue, Riddlesden, Keighley, pleaded not guilty to rape and indecent assault

Speaking after the verdicts, the woman said: "I wanted to drop the case because I was frightened about going to court, but the trial went ahead and I was told I could face prison if I didn't give evidence. I felt like it was me that was on trial. The nightmares started again and I was just glad to get it over and done with. Then I was told I'd have to do it all again for another jury.

"The legal system has put me through hell twice and I have been powerless. The only chance I've got at rebuilding my life is to move away from Bradford - but that would mean leaving my friends and relatives behind."

Pat Foord, coordinator of Bradford Victim Support, said: "I cannot begin to imagine how this woman must be feeling - having gone through it twice. It just doesn't bear thinking about."

During the trial the jury heard that the woman was picked up in the city's red- light district and allegedly raped at an antiques shop in Keighley.

A police spokesman said: "She was very brave and has our sympathy for going through such an ordeal in court. We are not seeking anyone else in relation to this inquiry."

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