“These are very serious charges, and you are at risk of being sent to prison,” the judge warned.

A man who has confessed to a slew of child sex offences has been granted more time on bail.

Michael Williams, 42 from Linden Road, Southampton, pleaded guilty earlier this year to multiple offences, which took place in Southsea. He pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child, two counts of attempting to cause a child to look at an image of sexual activity, and one count of making an indecent image of a child.

At Portsmouth Crown Court this morning, Williams appeared in the dock for sentencing - but was instead released by the judge.

This is because the defendant appeared in court unrepresented, meaning he did not have a lawyer present. Judge Michael Bowes KC called him into the witness box to discuss the case further.

Judge Bowes said: “You were represented at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court, but not now.”

Williams replied: “I’ve pleaded guilty though, and lawyers are expensive.”

Upon hearing this, the judge added: “These are very serious charges, and you are at risk of being sent to prison. It’s in your own interests, if possible, to be represented.

“In the end, it’s up to you, but I would advise finding a barrister. I’m going to adjourn the senetncing today, to give you a chance to think about that, and meet with some solicitors.

“In order to help you, I’m going to give you some directions, including the prosecution’s sentencing note and the pre-sentence report. My advice, however, is that you speak with a solicitor.”

Judge Bowes’ comments were echoed by Callum Church, prosecuting.

Williams was remanded on unconditional bail, with his sentencing adjourned to Friday, October 2.