An attempted rapist from Bolton appeared in court for his role in the beating and robbery of a man.

Brandon Astley, 21, attacked a man who was on his way to prayers at his local mosque on June 4, 2022, alongside Mark Davies, 39 and Christopher Astley, also 39. 

The victim was punched, kicked while on the floor and had his jacket and phone stolen. 

On August 2 this year he was sentenced for his part in the attack at Bolton Crown Court. 

Astley, of Junction Road, Bolton, was already in prison for an attempted rape which took place while he was on bail for the incident. 

He appeared in the dock, wearing a blue fleece and khaki joggers. 

Sentencing, Judge Martin Walsh said: "You fall to be sentenced for an offence of robbery together with your co-defendants and pleaded guilty. 

"At 4.30am on June 4, 2022, your victim was leaving his home address to go to his local mosque to pray. 

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"He was alone, and was approached and following a conversation was attacked, punched to the face, hit to the back of his head and on the floor was kicked to the stomach and face. 

Brandon AstleyBrandon Astley (Image: GMP)

"His jacket, including a mobile phone, was taken from him. It was a sustained attack, and the victim sustained bruising." 

Judge Walsh also addressed his victim personal statement, which showed the victim had been "psychologically traumatised". 

He added: "This was a group attack by three to four individuals which you pleaded guilty to. 

"Following the arrest you were released under investigation. On January 21, 2023, you committed an attempted rape and sexual assault. 

"You were sentenced to 63 months imprisonment." 

He made reference to Astley having been 19-years-old at the time of the robbery offence and having had no previous convictions. 

Judge Walsh added: "I now have to consider how the term of imprisonment should be increased to reflect this offending for which you now fall to be sentenced. 

"Your offender management report indicates that after initial difficulty, whilst in the custodial environment you have been very positive." 

Judge Walsh sentenced Astley to three years imprisonment, but ordered it to run concurrently to the sentence for the attempted rape, leading to no extension to his sentence. 

He said this was due to the positive steps taken by the defendant during his time in custody.