A CROSSDRESSER who poses a danger to women when wearing female clothes has received a suspended jail term for breaching a sexual offences prevention order.

David Harris, aged 45, of Hilltop Close, Stroud, faced jail for breaching the ban when he appeared at Gloucester Crown Court on Wednesday.

Harris had been convicted in January of flouting a sexual offences prevention order by going out at night in a knee-length red dress and blonde wig.

Sentencing was deferred for six months to allow him to be helped.

At last week's hearing, Jamie Tabor QC said: "The probation service have seen an incredible change in you in the last few months.

"You are receiving psychiatric advice and assistance and the probation service are giving you great support. You have also got a really good full time job with an employer who is obviously sympathetic to you and understands your position.

"In those circumstances it would be unfair to lock you up."

Harris was given a 12 month jail term suspended for two years with 12 months supervision and fined £20.

In 1998, Harris committed two sexual assaults while wearing women's clothing.

An order was imposed in 2004 banning him from wearing female clothes, shoes and accessories in public between 9pm and 6am.

Harris breached the order by dressing as a woman in the early hours of June 23 last year.

He was spotted by a neighbour outside his home.

Last year's offence was the fifth time Harris had breached the order.