A 51-YEAR-OLD man who attempted to lure a schoolgirl into his car has been sentenced to a three-year community rehabilitation order with treatment and five years on the sex offenders' register.

George Cripps, formerly of Wilkinson Avenue, Bruche, admitted the charge of attempted indecency with a child following an incident where he exposed himself to the girl and asked her if she was going to get in his car.

John Oates, prosecuting told the court how his 12-year-old victim had been walking to school when she had noticed a car following her. Cripps wound his window down and said to her: "Are you going to get inside?" She noticed he was naked and replied: "No, I can't because I don't know you."

Cripps denied he was naked or that he spoke to the girl but admitted he had exposed himself.

Simon Berkson defending said: "He knows he has a problem and that is a good start to somebody not offending again. A short custodial sentence would not help the defendant."

Judge David Hale sentencing, told Cripps: "What you did would really merit a sentence of 12 months. On the other hand when you come out there would be no support for you. You have been open and frank and that's what is needed before you can help someone in your position."

But he warned Cripps: "Any non-compliance with this sentence and you will go to prison."