A man who tried to rape a 43-year-old woman started an eight-and-a-half year jail term today.

Kosova-born Dritton Kamberi, 26, offered the woman two red roses before pushing her to the ground and jumping on top of her after she left a Southend club.

As he threatened to kill her the woman's screams were heard by a group of elderly residents who called the police.

Kamberi, of Prince Avenue, Southend, pleaded guilty at Basildon Crown Court to attempted rape. He was warned he can expect to be deported at the end of his sentence.

The defendant came to Britain 16 months ago. His application for asylum was turned down last year.

The victim was walking home when Kamberi accosted her near Cuckoo Corner. When she tried to avoid him he attacked her in Manners Way.

Police caught him on top of the woman.

Published Tuesday, January 21, 2003

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