Dad had sex with girl, 14; COURT: Talented footballer spared jail sentence.

Byline: By Ron Warrilow

A FATHER of three has avoided a spell behind bars after he had sex with a 14 year-old schoolgirl.

Judge Anthony Cleary told Philip Billingham, 22, described as a talented footballer, it was clear he had been unable to resist temptation.

"You richly deserve to go to prison," he told Billingham at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

"But is more important you receive treatment to deal with your attraction to young girls."

The judge added: "I am not convinced sending you to prison is going to assist the community.

"It is with some anxiety that I am going to recommend you receive treatment for your aberrations."

Billingham, of Banklands Road, Dudley, admitted four charges of sexual activity with a child and he was given a three-year supervision order.

He was further told he must register as a sex offender for five years and must not work with children.

Billingham was also ordered to pay pounds 2,065 costs.

Tarlowchan Dubb, prosecuting, said the schoolgirl's sister found sexually explicit messages on her mobile telephone and, when she rang the number, Billingham answered.

The police were notified and, after his arrest, he told officers he had sex with the girl four times in a car, but stressed it was consensual.

Richard Sones, defending, said Billingham was "devoted to football at which he excels", and added: "He was intensely flattered by the adoration of this young girl."

He said the girl had made it clear she wanted to be with him and sent him one message that read: "I love Phil. Forever and always."