A BARROW man has admitted attempting to engage in sexual activity with a child after being caught by a undercover police operation.

Martin John Lahiff, of Storey Square, Barrow, thought he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl online, but that the other person was an undercover police officer.

Lahiff, 26, pleaded guilty to two sexual offence charges when he appeared at the Barrow court last month.

Lahiff admitted attempting to cause or incite a girl aged 13 to engage in sexual activity, and intentionally engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child for the purposes of sexual gratification. Both charges related to October 27.

Prosecutor, Ms Chrissie Hunt said the defendant had been communicating with an undercover police officer and not a child.

The court also heard that Lahiff has previously possessed indecent images of children.

Lahiff's solicitor, Ms Maureen Fawcett said: "Fortunately it was an undercover police officer and not a 13-year-old girl."

The solicitor added: "He is ashamed of himself."

Lahiff was remanded in custody and will be sentenced today at Preston Crown Court.