A PAEDOPHILE has admitted hiding a camera in a keyring to spy on children getting changed.

Robert Prior, 43, hid a miniature spy camera onto a set of keys, which he would put in a changing room at a swimming pool where a child would be changing out of their swimwear.

He did this on two separate occasions in the same venue in 2017 and 2018.

Prior also admitted making more than a dozen indecent images of children, including one in category A, the most serious kind, and to publishing an obscene article online.

In this case, he exchanged messages with another man about how they were sexually attracted to children.

Prior of Upland Road, Billericay, appeared at Basildon Crown Court yesterday, dressed in a black coat and grey shirt.

He remained sombre throughout the hearing, speaking quietly to confirm his name.

He admitted six charges; three of making indecent images of children of category A, B and C, totalling 17 images, two counts of attempting to create indecent images in relation to the changing room cameras, and publishing an obscene article.

The offences took place in Billericay and Greater London between 2017 and 2018. Although the charge wasn’t specific about where.

The court heard Prior had let his imagination go to places that were illegal, but he had never acted upon his urges, and had received support from his family.

Judge John Lodge told Prior: “This is a difficult and troubling case. I am not going to pass sentence until I have as much information as possible.

“You will stay on bail, but I must make this abundantly clear that just because I am adjourning it should not give you any indication about what sentence I may pass.

“Talk to your lawyers as you’re going to need their help, and them yours.”

Prior will be sentenced at the same court on January 6 next year.

Due to the nature of his crimes he faces a possible prison sentence.