Superdry co-founder Julian Holder sentenced for 2022 sexual assault in Cheltenham

A 54-year-old man from Cheltenham attacked a woman in her flat after a night out in May 2022.

Recorder David Chidgey told Julian Holder at Bristol Crown Court that he had committed a despicable piece of sexual violence. Holder, appearing via video link from prison, showed no reaction as he was sentenced.

In a statement read to the court, the victim said Holder had taken her choice, dignity and body. "What you did that day has followed me, it has cast shadows where there should be light," she added.

A jury of seven men and five women at Gloucester Crown Court, sitting in Cirencester, found Holder guilty on May 1.

The fashion tycoon set up Superdry with Julian Dunkerton in 2003. He had been on an impromptu night out on May 6, 2022, which ended at the woman's flat, the court heard during the trial.

A witness said she called a taxi for Holder and a separate one for the victim. Holder then got into the back of the victim's taxi, which was headed to her home address.