A YOUNG dad-of-two who lied to a 14-year-old schoolgirl about his age and had sex with her three times has been jailed for five years.

Alexander Potts, 23, of Bradlegh Road, Newton-le-Willows, was convicted of three offences of sexual activity with a child after a trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

The 14-year-old girl had consented to what took place but a judge pointed out that the law was there to protect such immature girls.

The court heard that Potts, told the girl that he was 18, despite being 22 at the time, and that they went out socially a few times before inviting her to his home, which he was sharing with his partner and child.

On two occasions they had consensual sex but she was then alerted to his real age and circumstances.

However, he lied to her saying that he had been telling her the truth and they had sex again within the same week in late 2016.

In an impact statement the girl’s mum told how her daughter's behaviour had been affected.

Judge Neil Flewitt, QC imposed a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a five year restraining order to keep away from the victim.

He also ordered Potts to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Potts, who has a third child on the way, has previous convictions including assault and burglary.

Michael Hagerty, defending, said that Potts, is immature.

The offences did not involve drink or drugs and it was not a breach of trust case.