A SEXUAL predator who groomed three schoolgirls on social media has been jailed for two years.

Anthony King, aged 22, of Greenbridge Close, Castlefields, Runcorn, was sentenced to 25 months today after admitting three offences of inciting a child into sexual activity and four charges of making indecent images.

He lied about his age as he cajoled them on Facebook, telling one he was only 15 and another that he was 18.

After kissing one 13-year-old girl and telling her she was sexy, he enticed her into some woods and coaxed her to strip and give him a lap dance.

She refused and he became moody. He then laughed as she stood, embarrassed in her underwear.

He asked another 13-year-old girl to perform sexual acts for him on Skype.

After having sexual conversations for four months with a vulnerable 15-year-old girl, he asked her if she would have his baby.

He sent one girl a picture of his genitals.

Police found one obscene naked photograph of a girl and other pictures of girls in their underwear posing for the camera on his phone and laptop.

Victims said the ordeal has had a profound effect on them.

One girl tried to commit suicide and is now undergoing psychiatric therapy.

Others have been forced to change schools because they were being bullied.

Jailing King at Warrington Crown Court, as his parents sat in the public gallery, Judge Raj Shetty said: “They were all children groomed by you. You were an adult.

“One girl was 13, you were going on 21. You knew she was 13 and a schoolgirl.

“These children were all very pliable and easily manipulated to your requests of a sexual nature.

“That is why the law exists to protect children and make sure they can’t be exploited.

“I’m horrified to hear that one of these victims has been bullied, harmed herself and had to move school because of your actions.

“You used these young girls to make up for your lack of adult intimacy in your life.

“These girls were an easy target for you.

“You asked one girl to perform a lap dance striptease for your gratification. You laughed at her. The effect humiliated her.

“You were persistent with your contact with these girls.

“These offences are so serious, they merit a custodial sentence.”

King was also given a sexual offences prevention order for 10 years.

Maria Masselis prosecuting, said: “One girl was feeling suicidal as a result of what happened. She made efforts to harm herself with knives and taking tablets.

“She feels alienated from her family because of the shame and embarrassment.

“Another girl suffered greatly from stress and is concerned about covering up her body.

“There has been a profound effect on these girls.”

Jeremy Rawson, defending, said there had been no sexual touching or physical contact.

He said: “He (King) is a sad, isolated, vulnerable individual who was bullied at school and retreated into his shell.

“He relies on his family for contact.

“He is remorseful.

“He is a person of previous good character. He has never come to the attention of the police for a caution or conviction.”