A MENTALLY ill prisoner looked distressed and on the verge of tears as he appeared in the dock on Friday.

Robert Wilson was in Warrington Crown Court to be sentenced for indecent assault, making threats to kill and affray.

The homeless 52-year-old opened and closed his mouth, and alternately shook and scratched his head as the offences were read out.

A psychiatrist says Wilson has a mental health problem but was unable to reach a formal diagnosis.

Wilson, a heavy set and stocky man, also has severe learning difficulties.

His speech was broken and he repeatedly looked at his care worker in the public gallery.

His defence Charlotte Atherton asked for further psychological assessment to see if he should be sectioned under the mental health act.

Recorder John Jarman QC noted Wilson's distress and agreed to delay sentencing because he wants to be 'absolutely sure' what the problem is.