James Holder, 54, co-founder of Superdry, has been found guilty of raping a woman at her Cheltenham flat following a night out, Gloucester Crown Court has ruled. The incident occurred in May 2022 after Holder and a male friend got into a taxi with the victim. Holder denies the charge but was convicted after a jury trial.
Victims Account
The woman was reportedly intoxicated and pleaded with Holder to stop during the assault. Prosecutor James Haskell told the court the victim’s vulnerability was critical, citing her repeated requests amid tears as Holder continued. Sexual contact was undisputed, but Holder claimed it was consensual.
Holders Defence
In a recorded police interview, Holder described himself as “old-school and chivalrous,” asserting he had looked after the woman all evening. When questioned if he was used to getting his own way, Holder denied this. He also said he left the flat soon after because he had been out longer than planned, leaving the victim asleep.
Court Deliberations
During cross-examination, defence barrister Michelle Heeley KC suggested it was “a drunken sexual encounter that you regret,” but the victim denied this unequivocally. Holder faced charges of rape and assault by penetration linked to the night out in Cheltenham.
Sentencing Awaits
Following the guilty verdict, Holder was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing.
