A CONVICTED child sex offender who admits he is still a threat to society is being released from prison this weekend - but it is still unclear what is being done to help him.

Agencies dealing with the case of child molester Bernard Snape, 64, formerly of Parkwood Road, Blackburn, have refused to reveal what will happen to him after he is released from Preston Prison.

Although Lancashire Probation Service said arrangements have been made they declined to divulge what they were.

The problems presented by Snape's release have been highlighted by magistrates, solictors and probation officers in recent months during regular appearances at Blackburn Magistrates' Court and a row blew up after Snape himself confessed he continued to pose a threat to young children.

Snape was jailed for two years in August, 1997, for four offences of indecent assault on youngsters in Blackburn while he was living in a council flat. He was previously released on licence in August last year but rearrested for failing to comply with a condition of his licence which said he must reside where the probation service told him to.

Since then he has been kept under segregation at Preston Prison and indicated through his solicitor, Scott Ainge, that he wanted some kind of rehabilitation. or to be treated on a sex offenders scheme.

He was eager to join a programme in prison but because of the waiting list was released before the start.

But once released from prison Snape is free to go where ever he chooses as long as he gives the police his address for the Sex Offenders Register.

Assistant Chief Probation Officer John Webb said: "In Mr Snape's case the full range of service facilities was considered and other agencies have been involved in assessing and managing the risk he presents and finding him secure accomodation.

"The Lancashire Probation Service will continue to put public protection as its priority in dealing with any offender who presents a risk to others. Arrangements have been put in place for his release."

Mr Ainge said: "My connection with him has already ceased as he no longer requires legal representation but last time I spoke to him he was keen to write a book about his experiences and the problems he has had getting help.

"As I understand it he is also looking to move to another part of the country."

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