A CONVICTED sex offender who failed to notify the authorities he was not living at an approved address has been jailed for three months.

Preston Crown court was told that the breach of the terms of the Sex Offences Act resulted in Ian Whelan, 25, being recalled to prison. His next release date is in February next year.

John Coffell, prosecuting, said Whelan was convicted of rape and indecent assault at Preston Crown court on March 16, 2000, and was jailed for six years.

When released, he breached his licence by returning late to a hostel and was recalled to prison.

On August 29, 2003, he was released for a second time and an address in Spring Street, Accrington was approved.

In June 2004, police were informed he was not living at the address, but at the home of his parents where there was a child.

Miss Janet Ironfield, defending, said it was not suggested Whelan had been targeting young persons.

He had been sick, disgusted and was remorseful for the original offences.

He was the author of his own misfortune and had already been punished by being recalled to prison.

Judge Johathan Foster said Whelan had shown scant disregard for the court's orders.