A LEADING children’s charity has called for social media and website operators to do more to protect young people following a paedophile’s conviction.

The NSPCC responded to Peter Gillespie’s sentencing for molesting a child under two at Chelmsford Crown Court.

He was jailed for eight years and eight months for 26 sexual offences including photographing himself sexually abusing the infant.

A spokesman for the East of England branch of the charity said: “Gillespie’s sickening crimes show he is a threat to children and will need treatment in prison to lessen the risk he poses when he is released.

“He sexually abused a young child and by viewing and sharing images of abuse he fuelled an abhorrent trade that thrives off children being subjected to horrendous abuse.

It is far too easy for indecent images to be shared which is why the Government must force social media companies and internet providers to do more to protect young people online.”

Gillespie’s sick actions were branded “repulsive and unforgivable” by Judge Emma Peters QC at the court.

Gillespie, 65, of of Percival Road, Kirby-le-Soken, sobbed while his family heard how he orchestrated photoshoots of a child before touching them inappropriately.

The amateur photographer’s home was searched when police received intelligence of images being sent from his email address.

They also found three category B images of the child and 16 category C pictures, some which included himself.

The judge said: “That disgusting story was laid bare by the realisation you had thousands of images of paedophilic abuse, and a long standing paedophilic interest. It’s sexual abuse, pure and simple.

“There are hardly words to describe the revulsion any right-minded person would feel at the abuse.”

Over 14 years, Gillespie amassed 13 category A films and 503 category A photos; five category B films and 484 category B still images; 62 category C films and 4,198 category C photos of youngsters.

Adults concerned about indecent images or the wellbeing of a child can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.

Children can contact Childline with any concerns on 0808 1111.