A CHILD-porn-collecting musician has been banned from performing at a Halesowen church’s charity fundraising event this weekend.

St Margaret of Antioch Church, Hasbury, is holding a 12-hour Music Marathon on Saturday in aid of refugees and Tom Leaman was sharing the bill with a school choir.

However, eagle-eyed organisers realised Mr Leaman, aged 28, from Pedmore had been found guilty of possession of indecent images earlier this month.

The organisers moved swiftly to ensure Mr Leaman, of Ham Lane, would not be at the event.

Reverend Sarah Brush said: “We were shocked to discover that someone who had volunteered to perform at our 12-hour Music Marathon on Saturday has this week been featured in the press in connection with illegal images of children.

“The individual will not be participating in our event and will have no association with it.”

Anna-Christine Pridden, organiser, added: “I have been in contact via text (with Tom) and he pulled out of his own accord and understands that we have to distance ourselves.”

Leaman appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court and pleaded guilty to possession of indecent images and was given a three-year community order.

He had also contacted 15-year-old boys through internet chat rooms and had asked one to send him an indecent picture. He has to complete a Community Sex Offender work programme and pay £530 costs. If he breaks the order he will be jailed for 16 months.

Judge John Wait said: “All the indecent images you were storing were of children being abused for profit by vile people who spread them round the internet.”

The Music Marathon, from 10am until 10pm on Saturday, is going ahead and will be one of the biggest fundraising events in the Black Country for refugees.

Rector Rob Hall said: “This will be a fantastic event with so much on offer throughout the 12 hours.

“Lots of people will be offering their musical talents to raise money and raise awareness of the needs of refugees.”

Organiser Anna-Christine Pridden added: “It’s amazing just how much musical talent there is around. Don’t miss out on this wonderful day.”