A MILITARY sergeant from Corbridge browsed indecent images of children while alone in his barracks, a court was told.

Samuel Gault (54) admitted four offences at Cumbria Crown Court on August 18 – three counts of making indecent photographs of a child, and possession of 77 illegal images, which emerged after he was arrested at a North Yorkshire airfield.

Analysis of seized computer equipment showed Gault – formerly of Brampton, near Carlisle – had downloaded scores of illegal images of youngsters.

Judge Barbara Forrester heard 57 movies were category A – the most serious – and featured very young children.

Beccy McGregor, prosecuting, said Gault admitted downloading illegal images over several days in April “out of curiosity”.

She added: “He denied having any sexual interest in children. However, he stated he had had an addiction to pornography for many years.

“He would view it daily while alone in his barracks, but would not do so at home.”

Gault, a sergeant with the Military Provost Guard Service, was said to have had an exemplary military career, which included service in Bosnia and Iraq.

However, since his offending came to light he had left his job following a voluntary discharge, and put his marriage at risk.

Judge Forrester heard mitigation on Gault’s behalf, including his remorse, and that he had sought professional assistance.

She sentenced him to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years.

Gault, of Priory Gardens, Corbridge, must complete 140 hours’ unpaid work and rehabilitation.

He must sign the sex offenders’ register and follow the terms of a sexual harm prevention order for 10 years.