She convicted her rapist years after her death - The Sunday Story

Sue Firth did all she could to bring the man who raped her to justice. Within hours of the assault, in the early morning of September 7 1985, she had reported it to police. A manhunt ensued, but yielded nothing. In 1997, aged 39, Firth died. But this was not the end of her story. Three decades after her death, all that she did on the night of the attack has helped to convict her rapist. 

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Please be advised that this episode contains discussions of rape. If you or someone you know has been affected by anything in this podcast, help is available.

Rape Crisis England & Wales is the feminist charity working to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all other forms of sexual violence.

Call our free 24/7 Support Line on 0808 500 2222 or chat online at 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.

Guests: 

Martin Sills, brother of Susan Firth

Robert Varey, former detective sergeant, South Yorkshire Police.

Dave Stopfort, head of Major Incident Review team, South Yorkshire Police.

Host: Lottie Hayton.

Producer: Taryn Siegel.

Further reading: Sue died in 1997 — and got her rapist convicted in 2026

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Photo: Courtesy of Martin Sills.

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