A pensioner who was employed by Wiltshire Council has been found in possession of hundreds of child sex abuse images.

Kenneth Oliver, 73, of Leeson Road, Isle of Wight, pleaded guilty to five offences of a sexual nature at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, October 8.

He has been charged with making indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children, possession of an extreme pornographic image portraying an act of intercourse or oral sex with an animal, namely a horse, which was grossly offensive, and possession of extreme pornographic images portraying an act likely to result in serious injury to a person's private parts.

These offences are said to have taken place over a five-year period from November 5, 2018 to June 16, 2023.

Kenneth, who was initially from Swindon, has been employed by Wiltshire Council as a Canals and Project Officer since 2009 and previously held several roles with the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust, including Trust Chairman. 

He is believed to have moved to the Isle of Wight when he was charged with the string of serious offences.

Lucy Townsend, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Council, said: “Kenneth Oliver was most recently employed as a Canals and Project Officer for Wiltshire Council.

"While these incidents are not connected to his role at Wiltshire Council or his employment, we are providing ongoing support to any employees who may be affected by this situation.

“Due to employee confidentiality, the council cannot provide any further information on this.”

A Wilts & Berks Canal Trust spokesman said: “This is most distressing news that the Trust takes extremely seriously. The Court process is expected to conclude by the end of November 2024.

“Currently, Ken holds no position within the Trust, and a decision regarding any future involvement with the Trust will be taken following conclusion of the respective Court and employment processes.”

Kenneth is due to appear at Swindon Crown Court on Friday, November 22.