A 71-year-old man who sexually abused two young girls has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty at Canterbury Crown Court.

Derek Marsh, of Watersway Park, Reculver, Herne Bay, was told by Judge James O'Mahony that he presented a real risk to children, although he accepted Marsh was not dangerous in the statutory sense.

He had admitted three offences of indecent assult and one of causing a child to engage in sexual activity. Matters came to light after one of the victims confided in a teacher and the police were informed.

When questioned, Marsh admitted what he had done and said he felt sick and ashamed.

Paul Hogben, defending, said Marsh had shown a willingness and ability to engage in counselling and was deeply sorry for what he had done. Judge O'Mahony acccepted that Marsh had shown true remorse.

Marsh will be subject of a sexual offences prevention order for eight years, on the sex offenders' register and banned from working with children.

The court ordered 140 days served on remand should come off his sentence.