A MAN has been cleared of raping a woman in Southend.

Nuno Mendonca was accused of raping the woman in Southend following an investigation by police last year.

Basildon Crown Court heard that the the 42-year-old of Grosvenor Road, Westcliff, raped the woman as well as holding a knife to her throat and threatening to kill her.

The trial heard evidence from Mr Mendonca, along with police officers and other witnesses.

The jury retired yesterday to decide their verdicts, but before the end of the day, returned not guilty verdicts on all counts.

Mr Mendonca was then free to leave the court.

Judge Samantha Cohen thanked the jury for their service.