Comedian Tom Binns has appeared in Derby Crown Court, Derbyshire Live has reported..

He has previously admitted five counts of making and one of possessing indecent images of children. 

Binns, who is best known for his character hapless DJ Ivan Brackenbury and his BBC sitcom Hospital People, was due to be sentenced but the case has been adjourned. There is going to be what is known as a Newton hearing where the reason the defendant committed the offences and the basis on which he will be sentenced will be discussed.

According to Derbyshire Live a Newton hearing is "when the defendant's basis of plea - or version of events as to why they carried out the offence(s)- is challenged by the prosecution or judge. Judge Martin Hurst has set a full day hearing for August 1 where Binns and others will be expected to give evidence on oath."

Binns has previously issued the following statement: "Over 2 years ago whilst under the influence of an overdose of prescription drugs  for ADHD, which induced obsessive compulsive disorder I downloaded and deleted a large amount of adult pornography over a short period of time. Within those downloads it appears there was some child pornography which I had not sought out nor wanted.

I have no sexual interest in children. I have taken and passed a polygraph stating I have no sexual interest in children. I am bitterly upset at the hurt this has caused my family for which I take full responsibility. I will take my punishment for this and hope that my family are not further harmed by my actions."

Binns has also appeared in 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown and The IT Crowd. He was also known in the TV industry for his work as a warm-up many for comedy shows.