A woman took matters into her own hands after catching a man lifting her dress and underwear in front of fellow passengers on a train to Newtown, a court has heard.

Gareth Manuel appeared in Welshpool Magistrates Court on Tuesday 1st August 2023 facing charges of sexual assault.

As reported in the Powys County Times, Mr Manuel, who resides in The Gardens, Kerry, pleaded guilty and admitted lifting up her skirt, but claimed it was not sexual and a prank which backfired.

The victim has lifelong anonymity as a victim of sexual assault.

Magistrates granted Mr Manuel unconditional bail to re-appear before Magistrates for sentencing on 22nd August 2023.