A PENSIONER who attempted to pay a child for sex has avoided prison after one of his victims wouldn't press charges.

Alasdair MacArthur, who lives in Ledbury, was sentenced at Worcester Crown Court after he admitted four charges relating to sexual offences against children.

It is understood the judge told the 81 year-old of Orchard Lane that he was being spared jail time only because one of his victims refused to prosecute.

Instead, he was given a three-year community order and fine. He must also sign the sex offenders' register.

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Macarthur admitted making an indecent image of a child, attempting to cause a child between the ages of 13 and 15 to engage in sexual activity, attempting to engage in sexual communications with a child and attempting to pay for sexual service with a child between the ages of 13 and 15.

It is understood MacArthur was caught in an online "sting" by police and had been communicating with boys in online chatrooms before the images were discovered.

MacArthur pleaded guilty to the charges at Hereford Magistrates Court and the case was sent to Worcester Crown due to the severity of the charges.

He was sentenced there on September 24.

Though MacArthur avoided going to prison, he was handed a three-year community order, 30 rehabilitation activity requirement days and was ordered to attend a sexual offences programme.

In addition, he was fined £300, in addition to court costs of £340 and an £85 victim surcharge.