A TEENAGER has admitted sexually assaulting two young girls by massaging their feet.

James Cornell took the girls, who were aged ten and 11, to a secluded wooded area and carried out the act.

The 19-year-old admitted two counts of sexual assault on a child under the age of 13 when he appeared at a plea and trial preparation hearing at Ipswich Crown Court.

He denied two other counts of child abduction which relate to the same victims.

However, the Crown Prosecution Service will not contest those charges and will allow them to lie on file to save the victims from having to give evidence at a trial.

During the hearing on Friday, Cornell spoke only to confirm his personal details and enter his pleas.

The court heard since he was arrested, Cornell, of Ashbury Drive, Marks Tey, has undergone psychological testing and has been found to be suffering from a mental disorder.

Expert psychiatrist Dr David Ho recommended Cornell was made the subject of a hospital order and remanded into Brockfield House - a secure hospital in south Essex.

The teenager will receive treatment ahead of a sentencing hearing.

Judge Rupert Overbury granted the order having read two reports from experts into Cornell’s mental health.

He said: “I am satisfied he is suffering from a mental disorder.

“I am satisfied there is evidence of it and there is a responsible clinician, a bed available and arrangements have been made for his movement there within the week.”

The hospital order will last an initial 12 weeks but could be extended for a further four if doctors believe it is necessary.

A provisional sentencing date has been set for September.