A GRANDFATHER who was convicted of possessing indecent photographs of children taken from the internet is a victim support counsellor, it was revealed today.

Graham Cutler, 47, who was put on the sex offenders register for five years, has counselled more than 100 victims of crime - including children - during a 20-month period.

It was also confirmed that Cutler is a former voluntary worker for the probation service based at the Trinity Youth and Community Centre, Clitheroe.

Cutler, of Woone Lane, Clitheroe, was put on probation for the maximum three years after Blackburn magistrates heard that a computer and several pictures of a sexual nature involving young children were seized from his home.

Today Ann Firminger, vice-chairman of Burnley, Clitheroe and Pendle Victims Support, said Cutler had been suspended as an accredited volunteer in February after he was charged with the offences.

She said his long-term future would be decided at the group's next management meeting. She said he had made 109 home visits since becoming a volunteer in June 1996.

The visits to victims of theft, burglary and common assault included some children who were counselled in the company of their parents. No complaints had been made against the conduct of Cutler, she added. She said: "Before volunteers are accredited they are vetted by the police and interviewed by the scheme. Independent references are also taken up."

John Webb, assistant chief probation officer in East Lancashire, said: "Mr Cutler was involved around the fringes of the probation service as a volunteer until we dispensed with his services two years ago.

"He was never actually employed by Lancashire Probation Service."

He said he did not know whether he came into contact with youngsters during his voluntary work because the officer in charge at the time had now left.

Cutler, who lost a leg in a light aircraft crash several years ago, was described in court as a part-time fireman.

The court was told that Cutler came to police attention after complaints were made by several children around the age of 12 who had been to his home and had seen or been shown photographs of various forms of sexual activity.

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