A man taking his dog for a late night walk was shocked to see his neighbour stood in his doorway wearing only his socks and shoes.

Blackburn magistrates heard Patrick Dear was carrying out a sex act. And while he appeared shocked when he saw his neighbour, he continued his behaviour.

Dear, 56, of St Leger Court, Accrington, pleaded guilty to indecent exposure. He was made subject to a 12-month community order with 20 days rehabilitation

activity requirement. He was fined £120 with £114 victim surcharge and £85 costs and made subject to sex offender registration requirements.

Steve Botell, prosecuting, said the dog walker had a flat in the same complex as the defendant. He left his home at 11.45pm and as he passed the defendant’s home saw him standing in the doorway wearing only his socks and shoes.

“He appeared startled when he saw the neighbour but carried on doing what he was doing,” said Mr Botell.

He said Dear had previously been cautioned for similar behaviour.

Peter King, defending, said his client had a complex mental health issues and was a lonely individual.

“He apologises for his behaviour but in the context of his personal mental health problems he clearly needs some managing in the community.”