THE victim of a sexual predator delivery driver has been commended for her bravery.

Dennis Reed, 69, of Sydney Street, Colchester, was sentenced to a hospital order at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday.

Reed has also been placed on the sex offenders register, where he will remain for life.

READ MORE: Dennis Reed given hospital order for attempted rape

In an earlier hearing, Reed pleaded guilty to attempted rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of common assault.

The attacks occurred after Reed copied a key for the victim’s front door so that he could let himself in to her home.

In a statement read out in court, the victim said she: “still felt [Reed’s] presence in my home” and that “when [she] goes from one room to another, I have to check that he is not there”.

Investigating officer, DC Nicola Kelly, of the North Sexual Abuse Investigation Team said: “I cannot commend the victim enough for being brave enough to tell someone, and tell us, about the assaults on her by Reed.

“Reed knowingly targeted a very vulnerable woman and abused her trust in an abhorrent way.

“I am pleased that this detainment means that he will be unable to reoffend.”