A MAN convicted of molesting two young girls in East Lancashire has been made the subject of a hospital order.

Mark Sandham was found guilty by a jury of sex offences dating back to 2002/03.

Now aged 26, Sandham, was convicted of four offences of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child.

Preston Crown Court heard that the case involved two young girls.

A judge said they were persistently molested by Sandham and they had been significantly affected by what happened.

Some years ago, the defendant had been found to be unfit to plead.

He went on to be assessed as being fit to plead and was ultimately found guilty following a trial.

The court heard Sandham had been an inpatient at Calderstones for some time.

He had a learning disability which was associated, at least in the past, with serious irresponsible behaviour.

A consultant psychiatrist said the defendant’s mental disorder was of a nature and degree which warranted treatment in hospital.

Martin Hackett, defending, said Sandham had been 17 or 18 years old when the offences were committed.

In making a hospital and restriction order, Judge Stuart Baker said: “The decision when he will be safely released into the community is a matter of public protection and should be taken by a mental health review tribunal.”

Sandham will be on the sex offenders register for an indefinite period.