A MAN known for his charity and community work has been jailed after admitting to sexual activity with a child.

Mark Sunter, aged 26, a leisure complex manager, met a 15-year-old girl and they began exchanging “flirtatious” text messages, Worcester Crown Court heard.

Flattered by the attention of the older man, she agreed to go to his home in February last year – and while she was expecting some romantic activity, the court was told that she did not expect it to go much further than kissing.

But when there, Sunter, of Crystal Mount, Albert Road North, Malvern, began to mock her for being inexperienced and persuaded her to have sex with him, as well as engage in other sexual activity.

Prosecutor Abigail Nixon said the girl had been “uncomfortable” with what was happening, but did not know how to escape the situation.

Sunter pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual activity with a child and was sentenced to 20 months behind bars at Worcester Crown Court on Monday.

Judge Michael Cullum said he had to give an immediate custodial sentence to deter anyone else from behaving in a similar manner. “You took significant advantage of her – the fact she was young is an element of vulnerability,” he said.

“She was reluctant to go further. You gave her a choice between two sexual outcomes, and when she did not answer, you made that decision for her.

“You had an element of control over her.”

Defending, Adam Western said Sunter would have to live with the stigma of having a conviction for a child sex offence for the rest of his life. He said he had had the opportunity to renew their relationship since that incident, but he had declined.

“He acknowledges that he took advantage of this girl’s youth, and he acknowledges that she was impressed by the attentions of an older man,” he said.

“He recognises that what happened was wrong.”

A string of people had come forward to give character references on his behalf.

Mr Western said Sunter had been involved in setting up TG’s Project in Malvern to build a new skate park, in memory of his friend Tim Greenwood, who died aged 15.

“He is a man who is trusted, is honest and loyal,” Mr Western said. “His reputation has been destroyed. He feels great shame and true repentance.”

Sunter will also have to sign the Sex Offenders Register for the next 10 years.