A MAN caught in possession of more than 47,000 indecent images of children has been warned to expect a tough sentence.

Jean-David Marshall, pictured, had more than 2,000 Category A images, depicting the most extreme images of child abuse, when police discovered his offences in May 2012.

The French national was arrested on July 2.

The 31-year-old also had nearly 3,000 Category B images and a huge 42,299 Category C images.

Marshall, who now lives at Ladysmith Close in Christchurch, committed the offences at 21, Curlew Road in Christchurch.

He indicated his guilt when he appeared before Bournemouth magistrates.

Looking dishevelled in a check shirt and scruffy jeans, he spoke only to confirm his personal details during the two-minute hearing.

He was remanded on unconditional bail, to appear at Bournemouth Crown Court for sentence on October 10.

Committing him for sentence, magistrates told him they did not believe their powers of punishment sufficient to deal with such a serious case.

Category A images portray penetrative sexual activity.

Residents in Ladysmith Close said they were shocked and concerned to hear of Marshall’s offences.

Andrew Channing, who has lived on the estate for the past eight years, said: “It is worrying, bearing in mind I have got three grandchildren who come to visit.

“You hear about it all the time but you don’t really think of it in your neighbourhood.”

Neighbours said Marshall only moved to the area a few months ago and tended to keep himself to himself.

Mother-of-three Jan Dance said: “It’s awful. It’s a family area. It is very surprising to hear.”

Mr Marshall declined the opportunity to comment.