A paedophile walked out of court where he was prosecuted for inciting a girl under the age of 16 to engage in sexual activity.

James Dunham, 34, pleaded guilty to the charge on January 9 but after being released on bail to discuss the case with his solicitor in the Lewes Crown Court building, he escaped and has not been seen since.

The offence happened in Heathfield in January 2012 and involved a teenage girl who knew him.

Dunham, a landscape gardener whose last known address was in Albert Parade, Eastbourne, is described as white, 5' 10", of medium build, with green eyes and short brown hair.

He also has links to the Uckfield area.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: "There is nothing to suggest Dunham is a risk to the general public but we need to track him down so he can face justice.

"If you know where he is or have any information about where he could be, please contact us."

Anyone who sees Dunham, or knows where he may be, should call 101 quoting serial 329 of 4/12, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.