A MAN who caused a massive security alert at the Channel Tunnel when he was stopped with a First World War bomb, looks likely to be given a prison sentence.

Stephen Hart, 54, of Frant Court, Frant, near Tunbridge Wells, appeared for a plea and directions hearing at Maidstone Crown Court today.

Hart pleaded guilty to possessing the Stokes Trench mortar round on January 28 this year.

His barrister, Christopher Sutton-Mattocks, asked that the hearing be adjourned for reports to be prepared.

He said: “If you take the view that it is so serious that at least a term of custody may be considered then I must seek a pre-sentence report.”

The court heard the defendant was of previous good character. In response Judge Adele Williams said: “No-one coming to his case, notwithstanding his good character, can leave custody out of the equation because of the dreadful seriousness of what was done.”

Judge Williams added: "It doesn’t bear thinking about in terms of safety of the public of those using the Channel Tunnel. It caused a major security alert in the tunnel.”

It was confirmed to her that the tunnel has been closed because of the incident.

Concluding the hearing Judge Williams told Hart: “Obviously the offence is so serious that custody is a likely option, but all options should be considered.”

Hart was released on unconditional bail and will return to the court for sentencing on Friday 10 June.