A MAN put on the Sex Offender Register after being convicted of an attempted rape failed to inform police when he changed address.

Blackburn magistrates heard the requirement had never been fully explained to Ian Orange who, since his release from prison, had led a "normal" life.

Orange, 40, of Sumner Street, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of details. He was given a conditional discharge for two years and ordered to pay £25 costs. Roger Pickles said the legislation relating to the Sex Offender Register came into force while Orange was serving a five-year sentence.

"He signed a form in prison but the requirements were never spelled out to him at the time of conviction because the legislation didn't exist then," said Mr Pickles. "He remembers signing forms in prison in 1998 but can't remember this one."