Struan Pryde, 23, preyed on his victim when she was intoxicated and unable to give consent.

At the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, Judge Lord Scott noted a background report which said Pryde's actions suggested he "sought to meet his own sexual needs on the evening of the offence without consideration towards the capacity of the victim to convey consent".

Lord Scott stated: "This appears to me to be a reasonable summary of what happened that night.

"One striking aspect of your behaviour was its sheer persistence despite several unanswered phone calls and knocks at the door of the complainer's flat.

"Even on your own evidence, you had absolutely no reason to think that the complainer wanted you to come to her flat to have sex with her."

The serious sexual assault occurred at the victim's flat in Edinburgh in February 2020.

Pryde, of Stirling, was convicted of rape following an earlier hearing at the high court and has been remanded in custody since.

Lord Scott noted that Pryde continues to maintain his innocence but has shown the "beginnings of insight and awareness" regarding the incident, according to a criminal justice social work report.

The judge added: "You have said that you hope to engage in educational courses in custody as well as seeking volunteering opportunities.

"You might usefully also consider attending any available courses relating to healthy sexual relationships, especially regarding what consent is."

Lord Scott acknowledged that he had been provided 15 character references from Pryde's family, friends and others.

Defence advocate John Scullion KC said Pryde was a distinguished cyclist and triathlete.

He submitted a newspaper article detailing his client's accomplishments, adding: "I understand that he is a cycling and triathlon champion."

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'Clearly an intelligent young man'

Pryde was said to have volunteered for the Scottish Ambulance Service since the age of 18.

Mr Scullion said: "He has attended hundreds of emergencies with them. He has also participated in hundreds of life-saving emergencies.

"On his first day in custody he provided assistance to a prisoner who attempted suicide. He has made a contribution to society which can be described as being exceptional."

Lord Scott said Pryde's "impressive contribution to society" and "willingness to help others" made his actions on the night of the rape "even more puzzling".

The judge said: "I take all I have read and heard into account.

"It makes your conduct that night even more puzzling as you are clearly an intelligent young man who appears to have enjoyed a loving and supportive life and to be an otherwise useful member of society who had a bright future ahead of him."

Lord Scott said a jail term was necessary to punish Pryde and deter others from behaving in that way.

As well four years behind bars, Pryde was also placed on the sex offenders' register for life.