A PAEDOPHILE who stored indecent images of children on his computer has been put on the sex offenders register for three years.

Craig Dunlop, of Walker Road, Ayr admitted being in possession of pseudo-photographs of children at his home between June 1, 2016 and July 4, 2016.

The 33-year-old appeared before Sheriff Desmond Leslie at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Tony Currie, said: "He has been quite open and frank about his illness.

"This is a man who over a number of years has become isolated. I ask the court to deal with this by means of a community based order as an alternative to custody.

"There is a report available to allow him to be on a community payback order for a significant period of time. He will commend himself to this fully."

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Desmond Leslie, said: "I think there are a number of factors which will allow me to do that.

"The information provided to me in regards to the charge is disgusting and extreme which I am sure you will appreciate.

"These images were of children. You were truthful when you were interviewed by the police and conformed to the requirements if the police when they attended at the house with a warrant.

"Your cooperation and guilty plea will allow me to deal with you with a community payback order and not a custodial sentence. 

"You will have to deal with the problem which this case has identified. I will now make you subject to a conduct requirement with your supervisor who will be able to monitor devices that can access the internet.

"You will reside at an address which has been assessed by the supervisor."

Dunlop will be under supervision for three years, complete 180 hours unpaid work within six months and will be enrolled on the moving forward and making changes programme.