A SCOUT LEADER groomed a 14-year-old schoolgirl by giving her alcohol and taking her to hotels before finally getting her pregnant.

Richard Crook who volunteered as a Scout leader started a sexual relationship with a teenage girl from Southampton, a court heard.

The 41-year-old formerly of Vine Road claimed they had even planned the pregnancy.

Prosecution barrister, Gary Rutter said that Crook knew his victim was 14-years-old and would have seen her wearing her school uniform.

He added: “The defendant would take her to hotels for the purpose of sex.”

CCTV was even recovered showing him and his victim at Sutton Scotney services on the A34, according to Mr Rutter.

Crook, who installs CCTV security systems for a living was eventually arrested after raising suspicions.

However, he was released on bail and “the sexual relationship resumed”.

He was arrested again after the girl told a teacher she was five weeks pregnant.

Appearing before Southampton Crown Court, he was charged with four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child.

He pleaded guilty to the offences which took place between July and December last year.

Mitigating, Richard Tutt said: “Mr Crook has asked me on his behalf to apologise to both the victim and to her family.”

Mr Tutt told how his client’s marriage had been deteriorating and that he had been drinking heavily.

Judge Christopher Parker QC said there had been an element of grooming.

And the judge heard how a report - which he agreed with - had concluded that Crook represents a continued danger to young girls from the age of 13 and up.

However, Judge Parker said that Crook had not used his position as a Scout leader to abuse or take advantage of the girl.

He was jailed for 14-years and will be released on licence.

He will have to register as a sex offender for life.

The Daily Echo has contacted the Scouts Association for comment.