A MAN who admitted committing a sex offence on a 17-year-old girl has been given a conditional discharge at Preston Crown Curt.

A court heard how Derek Bolton, 49, of Lucy Street, Morecambe believed the girl, who turned up at his home, was a willing participant.

Bolton was arrested within four hours of the girl leaving his home at the beginning of September last year.

Not guilty verdicts were entered on two other charges of rape which he had denied. Mr Dennis Watson, prosecuting, said the girl had gone to Morecambe to see a male friend.

She met up with others at an amusement arcade and went to a pub.

She met up with her friend, but after around 40 minutes he went home. The girl had wanted to spend more time with him.

The teenager then decided to stay at the defendant's home. Bolton was surprised to see her when she turned up but allowed her to stay.

Later on she pretended to be asleep as a sex act occurred. Bolton was arrested at 6am in the morning.

The court also heard that the girl had been unwilling to co-operate with the prosecution in the case.

Defence barrister Mr Tim White said Bolton was an unemployed man, living alone, with no relevant convictions.

"His case is that she was not only compliant, but a willing participant. There is no suggestion she has been under pressure.

"He is never likely to come into this situation ever again. He does not pose a threat to anyone."

Judge Andrew Blake imposed a two year conditional discharge.