A FORMER teacher from Herefordshire was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to a series of sexual offences against children.

Michael Carrigan, aged 45, of Bosbury, Herefordshire, pleaded guilty to six counts of inciting a boy aged 13-15 to engage in sexual activity, four counts of inciting sexual activity while in a position of trust and nine counts of possessing indecent images of children.

He was also given a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and made subject to notification requirements for a period of ten years at Worcester Crown Court.

The investigation was instigated as part of Project Spade, a national investigation coordinated by the National Crime Agency regarding purchasers of indecent DVDs and videos from a Canadian-based internet company.

Detective Sergeant Mark Walters said: "Carrigan abused his position of trust to take advantage of young people for his own gratification.

"Today the court has passed sentence for his predatory behaviour.

"I would like to pay tribute to the victims in this case and for their cooperation throughout this investigation; their bravery has meant that we were able to put him before the court."

Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse or are worried about someone they know is being abused, should call 101.

To contact The Glade which offers a service to men, women and children who have experienced rape or sexual assault in the Shropshire, Telford, Herefordshire and Worcestershire areas call the 24-hour self-referral number on 0808 178 2058.