AN internet paedophile who downloaded nearly 300 indecent films and images of children has been sentenced to a community order.

Paul Wilcox, 44, of Tempest Drive, Chepstow, had five category A movies, classed as featuring the most serious examples of child sexual abuse.

Prosecutor Gareth James told Newport Crown Court the defendant also had five category B films and 283 category C images which included movies and pictures.

Wilcox admitted three counts of possessing indecent images of children, the offences being committed on June 4 this year.

Hashim Salmman said in mitigation that his client had admitted his guilt.

Judge Daniel Williams sentenced Wilcox to a two-year community order.