Police investigating child pornography followed an international trail to the door of a Blackburn man.

William Chambers had more than 1,500 indecent images of children on his devices, Blackburn Magistrates' Court was told.

Chambers, 60, of Weavers Court, Preston New Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to possession of 166 Category A images, 544 Category B images and 854 Category C images.

He was committed on bail to Preston Crown Court to be sentenced on February 20. He was made subject to sex offender registration requirements.

Glen Anderton, prosecuting, said the offences came to light after police were notified of the arrest of a Belgian national who was suspected of selling indecent images.

“The defendant’s phone number was obtained from him and police were able to track him down,” said Mr Anderton.

“His property was searched and a large quantity of indecent material was recovered.”

Mr Anderton said the defendant was a man of previous good character.

He will be sentenced next month.