Thomas Mason, 28, is standing trial, accused of rape and sexual assault at the 2022 Green Man Festival in Powys. He denies the charges, insisting the encounter was consensual. According to Mason, the pair met on the dance floor and the alleged victim initiated going back to her tent, even asking if he had protection and was free of STDs. Mason claims they had consensual unprotected sex upon mutual agreement.
He described the woman as “eager,” saying she suggested the encounter and never indicated unwillingness. Mason refuted allegations of physical assault, stating that the complainant herself removed her clothing and asked for sex. He said the alleged victim expressed discomfort during intercourse, leading him to stop. Mason emphasized he never took photos or used his phone’s torch, contrary to claims against him.
The trial also heard a festival steward who claims to have overheard the incident from a nearby tent. She described a mix of giggling and cries of “ow” and “stop,” though she admitted feeling conflicted and did not intervene.
Mason’s defence focused on discrepancies in the complainant’s account, questioning what might have led her to make such allegations. A police officer confirmed Mason’s phone showed no images of the complainant. The court heard a medical examination revealed a small laceration, common in both consensual and non-consensual sex, and could not definitively indicate rape.
Mason was arrested after a public appeal featuring his description and E-fit. He remains adamant about his innocence, baffled by the accusations. The trial continues as both sides present their narratives.