Care home founder Stephen Hyland found guilty of rape

The founder of a children’s care home has been found guilty of rape, indecent assault and cruelty charges.

Stephen Hyland, 54, of Aller Road, Langport could face prison after he was convicted of eight offences against two school-age girls.

The verdicts followed a nine-day trial at Taunton Crown Court. A jury failed to come to a decision on four further charges.

Hyland had denied the charges, saying allegations against him were “ridiculous.”

He will be sentenced at a later date and has been remanded in custody.