A paedophile police officer abused his power to enter schools.

America Luke Richardson, 22, went on unauthorised visits to schools during his short time as a police constable in Manchester.

Despite being suspended and having his uniform and warrant card confiscated in January 2014, Richardson went again to a sixth form college in uniform.

A wider police investigation into Richardson revealed that he had been involved in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl.

He had sent more than 4,000 messages to the girl, who lived in Essex, and met and abused her in a hotel room.

Police also discovered that he had stolen £970 worth of police uniform which he used to conduct his secret visits to schools.

The 22-year-old, who had joined the force in May 2013, has pleaded guilty to:

Richardson was jailed for five years at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday.

He was also handed a sexual harm prevention order and will be on the sex offenders register for life.

Police have warned Richardson may have abused more victims and have appealed to "anyone who may have been approached inappropriately by him online, or in person" to come forward.

Anyone who believes they have had inappropriate contact with Richardson should contact police on 0161 856 7791 or 101 or via the independent charity Crimestoppers.