A former footballer who installed secret cameras to film female victims in changing rooms and toilets has admitted voyeurism.

Alexander James Browne, 46, had previously denied nine counts of voyeurism and a charge of arson being reckless that life was endangered.

But on what would have been the first day of his trial at Bournemouth Crown Court today, Browne was given time to speak to his barrister and he later pleaded guilty to all but one of the voyeurism offences, which was ordered to lie on file.

As previously reported, cameras were found in the female staff changing room at HMP YOI Portland in November last year, where Browne worked as a guard and fitness instructor.

A fire broke out at HMP YOI on the same day as the cameras were found.

Further voyeurism charges were brought against Browne over incidents at locations in Weymouth, Dorchester and Poole.

One offence occurred at a Dorset school.

Browne carried out the lewd offences between January and December in 2018.

A full public gallery watched on as Browne, who wore a grey suit and a white shirt, sobbed in the dock as he pleaded guilty to each charge.

Prosecutors accepted a plea of guilty to simple arson in relation to the fire.

The case has now been adjourned for a pre-sentence report.

Browne was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Monday, August 5. He faces a maximum sentence of 18 months in prison.

Mitigating for Browne, Francesca Whebell said: “Mr Browne is aware that a number of people involved are in the public gallery, and he wishes to pass on through me a sincere and heartfelt apology for the effect this has had on them.”

Judge Robert Pawson, who will sentence Browne, said: “You have pleaded guilty to nine separate offences.

“Eight are offences of voyeurism. They are serious offences Mr Browne…the impact of which is not insignificant.”

Browne, of Chickerell, played for Weymouth Football Club for 10 years making more than 600 appearances for the club before moving to Dorchester Town in 2003.

He went on to make more than 200 appearances for the Magpies.

In 2008 he was announced as the new player manager for Wimborne Town.

He was also a coach for Dorset County Football Association.