A FORMER Darwen man, who pleaded guilty to downloading child pornography from the internet, is to be assessed for suitability for the sex offenders programme run by the probation service.

Christopher Paul Robert Hows, 22, now of Barking, Essex, had previously been remanded on bail by Blackburn magistrates for the preparation of pre-sentence reports.

The court heard that the probation service in Essex was considering recommending a community rehabilitation order with a condition of attending the sex offenders programme and that they would require further time to assess Hows' suitability.

The case was adjourned until August 3.