Man accused of 1987 Christmas Day rape

A man was tonight accused of raping a woman on Christmas Day more than two decades ago after a cold case review by police.

Antoni Imiela, 55, of no fixed address, was charged with rape, indecent assault and buggery of a 29-year-old woman.

The sex attack is alleged to have taken place on December 25, 1987, in Sydenham, south east London.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the charges were the result of a review by officers who specialise in sex crimes.

It is understood investigators claim to have connected him to the case after employing new forensic techniques.

The victim has died, but police have recorded interviews with her. Imiela will appear at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court on November 1.