Three women who suffered sexual abuse at the hands of an Inverness man have seen him jailed for almost a decade following a High Court case in Edinburgh.

Matthew Blair, 30, was sentenced to nine years and nine months in prison on Wednesday after being convicted of rape and sexual assaults committed against three women between June 2022 and January 2024.

The sentence was imposed at the High Court in Edinburgh following his conviction at the same court on 5 May.

The court also granted an indefinite non harassment order to protect those affected.

The case brought to an end a lengthy legal process and means Blair will now serve a substantial prison sentence for offences committed over a period of almost two years.

Detective Inspector Michael Cosh said:

“Blair’s actions were appalling and he will now have to face the consequences.

“It is hoped his conviction helps the women involved to continue to move forward with their lives.

“We take all reports of sexual crime extremely seriously and I would encourage anyone who has experienced abuse to contact us on 101. You will be listened to and supported.”

Sexual crime cases can often take years to reach court and police say convictions frequently rely on victims having the confidence to come forward and provide evidence.

The sentence marks the conclusion of proceedings against Blair and brings a measure of justice for the women involved.

Anyone affected by sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact Police Scotland or specialist support organisations for advice, assistance and confidential support.