A FORMER journalism student downloaded indecent images of children onto his mother’s computer.

Matthew McGimpsey’s iPad and a laptop which belonged to his mother were seized, revealing his “interest in children”.

Prosecutor Graham Heath told Southampton Magistrates’ Court that the photographs were downloaded by the 34-year-old over a four-year period.

He said: “His computer was investigated and a history of searches indicated an interest in children.”

The court heard that former Southampton Solent University student McGimpsey had no previous convictions.

Julie Macey, mitigating, told the court that following his guilty plea for possessing five category C indecent images in January, Saints fan McGimpsey had lost his job, family and friends.

She said: “Unfortunately his life has taken a turn for the worse... he was suspended from working.

“Unfortunately a letter sent to him by his employer was sent to the wrong address and he missed his disciplinary hearing and he was subsequently dismissed.

“People he shared accommodation with do not wish to continue living with him, so he now has to find somewhere new to live.”

Ms Macey added: “He was very open and honest when a report was compiled on him. While he struggled to explain the reason why these images were on the laptop, he accepts he has done this.”

McGimpsey, of Copinger Close, Totton, was given a two-year community order, which requires him to attend an accredited programme to address his behaviour.

He was made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order and notification requirements, both of which will run for five years. McGimpsey was also ordered to pay £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.