A MAN has appeared in court accused of voyeurism, making indecent pictures of a child and sexual activity with a woman without her consent.

The 55-year-old appeared before magistrates in Carmarthen on Wednesday.

Walking with the aid of a stick and wearing a suit, Edward William Sherlock confirmed his address as Dol Gran, Pencader.

The court was told he faces 22 separate allegations — six charges of voyeurism, 13 charges of making indecent pictures of a child and two charges of sexual activity.

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He did not enter any pleas in relation to these alleged offences.

Prosecutor David Weale said the nature of the alleged crimes and the sentencing powers of the magistrates' court meant the case should be referred to the Crown Court instead.

Sherlock's defence solicitor, Katy Hanson, said: "I fully accept this is a matter which should be dealt with by the Crown Court.

"We have not yet received the full file of evidence and that is why no pleas have been entered today."

The magistrates declined the case and agreed it must be sent to the Crown Court, which deals with more serious cases.

The matter was adjourned until September 15, when Sherlock will appear again at Carmarthen court for a committal hearing. He was released on unconditional bail.

Sherlock did plead guilty to possessing one gram of cannabis.

Mr Weale said the drug had been found at his home after a police search in relation to the alleged sexual offences.

Ms Hanson said Sherlock was a single man who suffered from multiple sclerosis and used cannabis for pain relief.

The magistrates gave Sherlock a 12-month conditional discharge for the drugs offence.