An East Hampshire man has appeared in court on child sexual offences following an undercover operation.

Crawley Magistrates Court heard that Brian Jones recently travelled to Horsham believing he was meeting a 13-year-old child after making arrangements online.

But the 64-year-old of Southview Road, Headley Down, was instead met by officers from the South East Region Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) with Sussex Police assisting in his arrest.

Jones, also known as Bryan Jones, pleaded guilty to one count of arranging or facilitating commission of a child sexual offence when he appeared before court last Friday.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of attempting to meet intentionally, or travel with the intention of meeting a child under 16, to commit an offence against the child. 

Jones was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on September 20.

Detective Inspector Andy Hedley hailed the work of his team after landing Jones in the court.

He said: “This arrest and subsequent conviction is the latest in our work to ensure that those who are prepared to commit sexual offences against children are brought to justice and that our communities in the South East are kept safe from harm.”

A spokesperson for SEROCU added that if you are concerned about your thoughts or behaviour towards children or those of someone else, seek help and support via the Stop it Now! confidential helpline on 0808 1000 900.

Further support is also available from the Lucy Faithfull Foundation.