A “wicked and evil” paedophile, who repeatedly raped a nine-year-old girl, has been jailed for 12 years.

Andrew Quantrill, 39, was warned he would not be freed unless and until the Parole Board was satisfied that the public would be safe.

Bradford Crown Court heard yesterday that a probation report had described Quantrill as manipulative and predatory, prepared to take enormous risks to satisfy his sexual lust.

It concluded he posed a high risk of harm, particularly to children, from further serious sexual offending.

Quantrill, of Fenwick Drive, Woodside, Bradford, pleaded guilty to four charges of raping the child, between August last year and January 19.

The court was told the girl said sexual activity took place on another 18 occasions. Prosecutor Jonathan Sharp said she thought it was a game, but felt it was strange and was worried. The offences came to light when she told friends, then teachers at her school.

Quantrill was arrested and a search of his home revealed a laptop computer containing more than 20 indecent images of children.

Mr Sharp said that in 2006 Quantrill was cautioned for being in possession of indecent images of children. He said Quantrill admitted being a heavy cocaine user and that “when coked up” he had gone too far with the girl.

Mr Sharp said the girl was now worried about going out, scratched herself to make herself bleed, had been dropped down a set at school because her work had suffered, and was awaiting counselling.

Judge Jonathan Rose told Quantrill what he did was “wicked and evil”.

Judge Rose said the use of cocaine was an aggravating feature, and could only have been “intended to increase your sexual pleasure.”

He added: “It is very clear that, while you may not have caused significant physical damage, the psychological damage you have done is very significant indeed.”

Ian Hudson, representing Quantrill, said his client accepted the humiliation, violation, and unknown damage he had caused. He had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity and spared the girl having to give evidence.

Judge Rose jailed Quantrill for 12 years, with an extended licence period of six years. He would serve a minimum of two thirds of the custodial sentence, but he would only be released after the Parole Board was satisfied the public would be safe.

After the case, Detective Constable Helen Riley, of Bradford District Safeguarding Unit, said: “These were crimes without conscience and of the utmost depravity. The fact that the victim reported these offences is testament to her bravery and courage. I hope this sentence will enable her to move on with her life.”