A woman claiming to have been sexually assaulted told the court she became aware of a naked man engaging in sexual activity with her while she was asleep, court documents show.

Sam Layne, who formerly lived in Albert Street, Banbury, is facing rape allegations at Oxford Crown Court.

The 32-year-old man has denied the single rape charge, which allegedly took place in Banbury in the early hours of February 15, 2023.

On Monday, April 27, jurors heard introductory remarks from prosecutor Edward Lucas.

He explained how the claimed assault happened at the defendant’s home after an evening out in Banbury.

The court heard that on Valentine’s Day, the complainant had been playing darts at the Dog and Gun venue and billiards at the Horse and Jockey.

Mr Lucas said the woman had known Layne through mutual acquaintances. He observed that she placed her trust in him and felt comfortable in his company.

Jurors were informed that Layne and the complainant arrived at his flat sometime between 3:30 and 4 in the morning.

Mr Lucas went on to say she planned to unwind and have a drink. She trusted him, having visited his home previously with no issues regarding physical intimacy. She thought she had nothing to be concerned about. Had she felt unsafe, she would not have put herself in that situation. They were talking, watching TV and listening to music.

The court was told the woman had fallen asleep while still wearing her clothes and had described herself as a deep sleeper.

Mr Lucas noted there was absolutely no discussion about anything sexual. She woke up to find he was having intercourse with her.

Jurors learned that her clothing had been removed and that Layne was completely naked.

The prosecutor added that she felt shocked, was crying and extremely distressed. He shifted away from the bed and asked how she was. She left in a distressed condition, in tears, and called a taxi to get home.

The court discovered that Layne had sent the woman a message to see how she was doing and to apologise.

Layne was arrested and questioned by police on February 19. He refused to respond to questions, though in a defence statement he insisted no sexual contact took place.

Mr Lucas observed that jurors must consider whether something did happen. He maintains there was no sexual activity.

Jurors subsequently watched a recorded interview the woman gave to police in March 2023.

She said she was at a friend’s house before going to Sam’s. She left with Sam and arrived at his place. They went into his bedroom, turned on the television and played some music. Nothing unusual or odd, just sat there relaxing and talking. She woke up and he was having sexual relations with her. So she panicked and he seemed panicked too. He had taken off her underwear. She ran to the nearby taxi stand and went home.

The hearing continues.