Fruit and vegetable salesman George Anderson, 63, from Johnstone, mouthed “b*****ds” at his victims sitting in court as he was remanded in custody after the verdict.

Anderson, who had a fruit and veg shop in Johnstone, committed the offences between May 1973 and August 1992 at various addresses in Johnstone and Howwood.

He raped one of his victims in the back of the converted ambulance from which he sold fruit and vegetables and he sexually abused a woman with intent to rape.

The court heard that Anderson was finally brought to justice after his rape victim and her father confronted him at home.

She accused him of raping her and was told by Anderson: “I’ve been expecting this.” But despite saying that Anderson in evidence denied raping her. He claimed she was a willing partner and had consented to sex.

Advocate depute Jim Keegan QC, prosecuting said: “Are you so irresistible that a young girl would willingly engage in sexual intercourse with you,” and Anderson replied: Yes.” Anderson also wrote a letter of apology to a girl he abused in 1973 where she was 12 saying “I am so sorry for my behaviour all those years ago. I just hope you can find ways to forgive me.” He admitted sending the letter but claimed it had nothing to do with sexually abusing the girl..

Another victim whom, Anderson told: “I’m going to have you” described him as a “sleazy, dirty old man,” Judge Johanna Johnston QC remanded Anderson in custody and deferred sentence until next month for background reports.