A MAN has been jailed for two years for having sex with an underage girl.

Jake Smith, 24, of Lingcrag Gardens, Cowling, pleaded guilty to sexual activity with a child and sexual communication with a child. Prosecutor Gillian Batts told Bradford Crown Court the offences came to light when police 'interrogated' his phone. The teenage victim had not co-operated with the investigation.

Smith’s barrister, Robin Frieze, referred to a report by the probation service and a letter to the court from Smith’s employer.

He said Smith was emotionally immature but he recognised that his behaviour was misguided and unlawful.

Judge Richard Mansell QC said only an immediate prison sentence was appropriate in the case to deter others from similar offending against children.

Smith was ordered to sign on the sex offender register for ten years.