A man who sexually abused a young girl turned himself in to police in an effort to stop his behaviour.

Lawrence Smith, of Park Road, Herne Bay, admitted five charges of sexual assault on a child under 13 and also admitted making indecent photos of children and possessing indecent images of children.

Judge James O’Mahony told Smith: “These offences are so bad that it is difficult to find anything that can be said.

"But you gave yourself up and are knuckling down to being in custody and are doing comparatively well in that way.”

Peter Forbes, prosecuting, told Canterbury Crown Court that Smith had inappropriately touched the girl.

In August this year, when he was drunk, Smith decided to tell the police about his crimes, Mr Forbes said.

He rang his victim and told her what he was going to do.

On October 21 Smith made an attempt on his life because he was ashamed of his actions.

“These offences are so bad that it is difficult to find anything that can be said" - Judge James O'Mahony

Police found indecent photos of children on his computer and several search terms.

James Howard, defending, said Smith had no previous convictions.

“Alcohol was a factor,” he said. “He lost his business, his home and his parents and he turned to alcohol.

"He felt he and the girl were in a relationship and in love and he used this to justify his actions."

Mr Howard said Smith came across images of children while looking at adult porn and out of curiosity he clicked on one of the pop-ups.

Smith was sentenced to a total of 46 months in prison.

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