A former Ofsted inspector from Saffron Walden has admitted child sex offences.

Adam Higgins, 48, of Maypole Close, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court last week, charged with two counts of downloading indecent images and one of attempting or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Higgins, who was released on bail, was found to have 89 moving images and one photograph.

Ofsted suspended Higgins when the police investigation was launched in September and began disciplinary proceedings, during which Higgins resigned.

Sir Michael Wilshaw, Ofsted’s chief inspector, said: “I share the sense of revulsion at the thought that an individual trusted with improving the education of young people has behaved in this way.

“While the police have confirmed that there is no reason to believe any pupils at the schools he inspected were at risk during his inspection visits, we have liaised closely with the schools and local authority areas in which Mr Higgins worked and will continue to do so over any concerns they may have.

“While this is a deeply shocking case and a matter of profound regret, we believe we did everything we could to check his background. It serves as a reminder of the need for continual vigilance when it comes to safeguarding children.”

Higgins will be sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on July 6.