A MAN from Whitchurch has admitted three counts making an indecent photograph of a child.

Graham Moore, 66, of Pauls Moss Court in Whitchurch pleaded guilty to all three charges at Telford Magistrates Court on Wednesday, August 7.

The charges were brought forward following the execution of a warrant on March 29, 2018 at Moore’s home address in Whitchurch.

During the warrant, a phone was seized and was found to have 12 indecent images saved to the device: nine category C, two category B and one category A – the most severe.

In the phone’s internet history were also links to a free Russian photo sharing website, known to authorities.

Defending solicitor Kate Cooper said that Moore accepted the images were on the mobile phone, but said he was initially searching for pictures of adult nudism, something Ms Cooper suggested Moore had an interest in.

She added that Moore clicked on other links ‘out of curiosity’ which led him to the photo sharing site, but that he got no sexual gratification from it.

Magistrate Nigel Atkinson said the issue would have to be referred to Crown Court for sentencing, saying: “The matter is so serious that our sentencing powers are not sufficient.”

The case will be heard in Shrewsbury Crown Court later this year.

Moore was given an unconditional discharge, but he must sign the sex offenders register and was issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.