Womans first lover in 14 years knowingly gave her HIV

A mum who became celibate after splitting from her husband was given HIV by her first lover - in 14 years. Annette Newman, 49, believed she met her “soulmate” online and was excited about ending her dry spell following the breakdown of her marriage. But after 18 months the mum-of-two discovered Jason Townsend, 45, had kept a dangerous secret – he had been suffering from HIV for 26 years. When she was diagnosed, Annette, of St Athan, south Wales, spiralled into depression and contemplated suicide before Townsend was jailed for 27 months. Yesterday (Fri) Annette said: ““I was devastated that it was such a short sentence.