A MAN has appeared in court charged with taking indecent photographs of children over a nine year period.

Roger Carr, 56, had 13 counts dating from 1998 to 2007 read out to him at the committal hearing at St Albans Magistrates Court on Monday.

Carr, formerly of Herne Road, Bushey, but who gave his address as Farm Close, Borehamwood, is alleged to have had the pictures in boxes at his Bushey home.

During the short hearing,Carr fidgeted with a gold pocket watch, and when asked by the magistrates if he was chewing gum explained that he needed it as he was a diabetic.

The matter was adjourned for trial at St Albans Crown Court on Monday, June 4.

Carr was released on unconditional bail until that date.