A west Cumbrian father has admitted allowing his toddler to wander out of the family home in the early hours of the morning while he was drunk.

The defendant, who is in his 20s, can not be named for legal reasons.

The defendant admitted committing the offence on June 7, causing the child unnecessary suffering. The charge also specified that at the time he had been unaware of his child's whereabouts.

The man also admitted a second like offence, when he accepted he had failed to provide for the child's basic care needs because he was so drunk.

Carlisle Crown Court Judge Peter Davies adjourned sentencing until January 11 so that background reports can be prepared.

The defendant was told that Social Services were now involved.

Judge Davies told the defendant that he could have bail but his conditions included a stipulation that he must have no unsupervised contact with any child.

He told the man: "You have sensibly pleaded guilty today, but I want to know more about you before sentencing. The judge added that if the defendant breached his bail conditions he will be arrested.

He added: "All options are open."