A RETIRED local government worker amassed a collection of child abuse images.

Police initially seized devices from 79-year-old Robert Hawkins after executing a search warrant in August, 2018.

Illegal images of children had been downloaded during a four-year period.

But Carlisle Crown Court heard how, despite being arrested, Hawkins's concerning criminal conduct continued. He was detained again last June.

“He had bought a new laptop and used it to re-enter such chat rooms where the sexual abuse of children was discussed,” said prosecutor Charles Brown.

“Written fantasies”, depicting sexual activity with youngsters, were also found.

Hawkins, of Greenacres, Plumpton, near Penrith, admitted making indecent photographs of children - 159 in the most serious category A class, 168 category B and 493 category C - and showing an illegal image.

As Hawkins was sentenced, Judge Nicholas Barker noted: “It is also apparent this was not simply you indicating that you were looking at indecent images. Your sexual perversion and your deep-seated troubling sexual interest in children extended to you entering into chat rooms, acting out perverted fantasies about children.”

Sean Harkin, defending, said Hawkins - a man of previous good character - was taking steps, voluntarily, to address his offending behaviour.

“He was a respected member of the community. He’s worked all his life. Most of that was a career spent working in local government,” said Mr Harkin. “Following his retirement he was involved in various local history societies, taking an active role in them. He was somebody who was well respected and he has lost all that at a fairly advanced stage of his life. He is thoroughly sorry and ashamed for what he’s done.”

After considering all evidence and submissions, Judge Barker concluded that prison would not address Hawkins’ problems.

He instead imposed a 36-month community order comprising treatment programme attendance and a rehabilitation requirement, telling the pensioner: “This is designed to both assist you and protect the public.”

Hawkins must sign the sex offender register and abide by the terms of a prevention order for five years.