A violent rapist has been jailed for life - by the judge who freed him two years earlier.

Recorder David Hodson admitted that his decision not to jail ex-soldier Paul Parker for rape in 2001 had been "a mistake" after Parker was found guilty of attempting to rape two other women.

He had taken the decision that Parker posed no threat to society after hearing that he was unable to control his sexual urges because of medication he was taking for Parkinson's disease.

He was given a three year community rehabilitation order instead of a jail sentence.

Newcastle Crown Court heard that Parker, 37, of Hazel Street, Jarrow, had been in the Army for 16 years before being struck with the debilitating disease.

In April this year, he called on a teenager at her house in South Shields.

After having a cup of tea, he pulled out a knife, pushing the screaming girl to the floor.

He then left telling the girl he was sorry.

The court heard that at the last minute Parker had told his doctor: "The only way I can be 100 per cent certain that I will not repeat these offences is if I am dead."

Judge Hodson admitted his error at the sentencing two years ago.

He said: "You are a seriously damaged person, these chilling events must have struck absolute terror into the hearts of your victims."