Internet paedophile jailed

Ashford contacted girls on the internet

A paedophile who filmed sex sessions with underage girls he met in internet chatrooms has been sentenced to eight years in jail.

Peter Ashford, 48, of Thetford in Norfolk, admitted a total of 13 charges against the girls at an earlier hearing.

The charges included one count of rape, two of buggery, three counts of indecent assault and two charges of unlawful sexual intercourse.

It is clear that many parents have no idea just what undesirable friendships are being established

Judge Anthony Thorpe

He was also charged with two counts of taking pornographic photographs.

Ashford struck up relationships with two 14-year-old girls via internet chat rooms.

Judge Anthony Thorpe at Chichester Crown Court gave Ashford a 12 year sentence, made up of eight years in prison followed by four of extended supervision.

He added: "This case is yet another warning to parents of the dangers of internet chatrooms, allowing men like (Ashford) to strike up acquaintances with young girls.

"It is clear that many parents have no idea just what undesirable friendships are being established with their children over the net."

Sussex police say they are investigating whether Ashford has committed other offences.

It was revealed in court he had a previous conviction for sexual offences against an underage girl.