A MAN has begun a prison sentence of three years and four months after pleading guilty to six charges of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16 years old.

Gareth Jenkins, aged 32, of Hodges Crescent, Britannia, Pengam, committed the offences in the Rhymney Valley area over a period of almost six months, beginning late in January 2014, Newport Crown Court was told.

"He knew it was wrong, but he loved her and felt that she loved him," said prosecuting counsel Julian Greenwood, who added that the incidents arose out of social contact.

He added that there had been contact between the two after the relationship was discovered, but any bond had subsequently deteriorated.

Defence counsel Andrew Jones told Judge Philip Harris-Jenkins that the relationship had occurred at a difficult time in Jenkins' personal life and it had developed in a way that he had recognised to be "wholly stupid".

The court was told that Jenkins was facing six specimen charges, but the sexual activity had taken place up to three times a week over the period.

Judge Harris-Jenkins sentenced Jenkins to 40 months in prison on each of the six charges. The sentences will run concurrently.

He said the sentence must reflect the course of contact and sexual activity with a child.

He told Jenkins that the offences had occurred because he had broken up with his partner, drank for solace, and the opportunity presented itself. He also identified a number of aggravating factors to Jenkins' offences.

"I would be failing in my public duty if I passed a community sentence," said Judge Harris-Jenkins.

He also ordered Jenkins to pay a £140 victim surcharge. On release, Jenkins will face restrictions in terms of working with children, and he must also inform the police of future changes of address.