A Rochester man found with images of child abuse on his computer told a judge he has been addicted to pornography for 35 years.

Nigel Edwards pleaded in court: "I am crying out for help. I am seeking help for my addiction."

The 49-year-old wept as he told Judge David Griffith-Jones QC: "I feel so ashamed. It's not just me I am letting down but my entire family and my employers."

Edwards, of Gerrard Avenue, had been arrested in October 2018 when officers seized his computer and mobile phone.

Maidstone Crown Court heard how police began an investigation and Edwards was released pending charge.

But before he was charged, officers visited his home and discovered more images on a laptop, some depicting an eight-year-old in visible distress.

Now Edwards has been jailed for 18 months after admitting downloading hundreds of illegal images in all three categories and also possessing an extreme image.

"It's hard to admit an addiction, your honour. I just need help..."

Edwards, who represented himself, told the Judge: "I am currently seeking help with my addiction to pornography, which I have had for 35 years."

He said he was receiving advice from the organisers of Stop It Now, run by the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, which works to prevent child sexual abuse.

Edwards said he had been seeking help for two months, to which the Judge retorted: "Bit late really, but it's good you are doing it."

The sex offender added: "It's hard to admit an addiction, your honour. I just need help. I will accept anything you do today."

As well as being jailed, Edwards was also made the subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order which restricts his use of the internet.

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