A FORMER newspaper editor sat with his head in his hands after he appeared in court for making indecent images of children after it was revealed the case had taken a 'heavy toll' on him.

Rob George, ex-editor of the Worcester Observer, appeared at Worcester Crown Court today (Friday) for a sentencing hearing but the case had to be adjourned for legal reasons.

The 42-year-old of Rowan Close, Bromsgrove, has already admitted three charges of making indecent photograph/pseudo photography of a child.

George appeared before magistrates on February 15 when he admitted making the images between March 7, 2014, and October 14, 2021, in Bromsgrove. 

George made one category A image (the worst level identified within the sentencing guidelines), two category B images and 36 category C images.

The case at crown court was prosecuted by Holly Kilbey and George was represented by Julian King.

George was initially interviewed about the offences more than two years ago - on February 2, 2022.

Mr King said: "This has taken a heavy toll on Mr George, professionally and personally - the loss of his job, his mental health and family relationships."

The court was told that the starting point within the sentencing guidelines was a year in custody (for making a category A image).

Mr King said there had been 'no further offending or concern' in the two years since the interview.

Mr King urged the judge to proceed to sentence. "This is suitable for a suspended sentence to allow the defendant to move forward with his life," he said.

RECOMMENDED READING: Rob George admits making indecent images of children

RECOMMENDED READING: A44 Spetchley Road: Arrest after fatal Worcester crash

He added that George was 'considering serious self-harm'.

"He has reported those thoughts to me today. I do harbour that concern for his wellbeing. I have sought mental health liaison officers available in court. They're not in today. That is the toll this is taking on this defendant," said Mr King.

 Judge Martin Jackson said: "If I adjourn this for any period of time this is going to impose strain on Mr George. I can see that from his demeanour in court."

The case was adjourned until April 12 at Wolverhampton Crown Court with George granted unconditional bail in the meantime.

However, he also said the case needed to be expedited and that any further delay 'would not be appropriate in this case'.

Lauren Millichip, prosecuting, said in the earlier hearing at magistrates court: "The offence is aggravated by the age and vulnerability of the children, between one and eight-years-old."

The prosecutor added there were also moving images found in a video file.

George was previously listed as being the editor of the Bullivant Media-owned Worcester Observer, Malvern Observer and Evesham Observer on their websites.

He has also worked as a reporter at the Bromsgrove Standard.