A DEBT collector who sexually abused the young daughter of one of his customers was jailed indefinitely for the protection of the public yesterday.

James Graham, 59, would take the opportunity to pounce on the youngster when her mother had gone to make a cup of tea or use the bathroom.

Newcastle Crown Court was told how over a two-year period, Graham abused the youngster between 12 and 20 times - starting when she was just seven.

He was arrested after the schoolgirl confided in a relative. When police searched his home, they found videos of youngsters being abused that had been downloaded on to his computer.

Tim Gittens, prosecuting, told the court how the abuse continued despite the girl's protests for it to stop.

Graham, who was convicted of indecent exposure in the 1970s, admitted he had "groomed" the youngster with gifts and had began the abuse because he was impotent and wanted to see if it would make him aroused.

Graham, of no fixed address but originally from Jarrow, South Tyneside, admitted three charges of sexual assault and one of possessing indecent photographs of children.

The court heard how sex offender assessment reports indicate Graham has no understanding of the effect of his behaviour on his victim, has distorted thinking patterns, and a high level of sexual preoccupation.

Judge Esmond Faulks told him: "You will be detained in custody until the parole board takes the view your risk has sufficiently reduced to justify your release."

He said Graham cannot apply for parole for at least two-and-a-half years.

Christopher Prince, mitigating, said Graham's family and friends have now turned their back on him.

Mr Prince said: "He is now entirely alone in this world."