Family left shocked as homeless man exposed himself to children in Roundhay Park on busy summer afternoon

Murray Smith told staff at St George's Crypt how he wanted to expose himself to youngsters before travelling to the park in North Leeds to commit the offences.

Rupert Doswell, prosecuting, said the incident happened on July 18 this year as the park was busy with children and parents.

A couple with their 13-year-old daughter and boys aged six and four noticed Smith sitting cross-legged on a grassed area as they walked on a path from a car park.

Mr Doswell said the parents and the older child noticed Smith had his hands down his trousers and realised he was masturbating.

Smith continued as he watched the children and at one point exposed himself.

The adults told the children to move away and Smith got up and left.

Police were contacted and he was arrested nearby.

He was interviewed about the incident and claimed he had been sleeping rough and had not noticed the children.

Mr Doswell said Smith had been reported by staff at St George's Crypt in Leeds city centre prior to committing the offence after he was heard saying: "The universe is wanting me to masturbate in front of children. I do not want to, but the universe does."

Smith, 31, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to two offences of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Caroline Abraham, mitigating, said Smith has no previous convictions and pleaded guilty at an early stage.

She said Smith was sorry and ashamed of what he had done.

Ms Abraham said Smith became homeless after losing his job and began suffering from depression.

The barrister said the defendant began using cannabis on a daily basis which affected his mental state.

Smith was given an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to take part in a 30-day sex offender programme.

Judge Penelope Belcher said: "I am mindful that the public will be better protected and children will be better protected in the future by you undergoing work with the probation service."