A convicted sex offender who performed a lewd act on himself in the smallest chapel in Britain was jailed for 14 months.

Mark Jones, aged 36, of Rhyl, pleaded guilty to indecent exposure inside the sixth century St Trillo Church on the shore at Rhos on Sea.

He also admitted indecent exposure at Prestatyn eight days earlier last January.

Prosecuting barrister Jonathan Austin told Caernarfon Crown Court a woman worshipper had gone to St Trillo Church to pray had noticed Jones.

He had his trousers down when a woman police officer arrived and she was “shocked by his casual attitude”.

Judge Huw Rees branded his behaviour “sacrilegious”.

A sexual harm prevention order was made and Jones must register as a sex offender.

Judge Rees told Jones: “Your intention was to commit a selfish act in a highly inappropriate manner.

It’s unbelievable such a base act could take place.”

Kevin Jones, defending, said the defendant had learning difficulties and had endured a troubled upbringing.