A pervert doctor is facing sentence after admitting sexual assaults and making indecent images of children.

Dr Barend Delport resigned after reports of photos being taken of his patients at The Oaks surgery, in Swanley.

He was barred from practising until an investigation was complete.

The 55-year-old GP, of Summervale Road, Tunbridge Wells, stood shame-faced in the dock at Maidstone Crown Court today as he admitted 27 offences.

He pleaded guilty to five charges of sexual assault, two of indecent assault, one of sexual activity with a girl under 16, a dozen of taking an indecent photograph of a child, five of making an indecent photograph of a child and two of possessing an indecent photograph of a child.

"Barend Delport's behaviour was an appalling and gross breach of the trust that patients..." - DCI David Chewter

He denied three offences of misconduct in public office and they were not proceeded with.

Judge Martin Joy remanded Delport in custody until sentence on September 9.

NHS Kent and Medway wrote to all patients registered at The Oaks Surgery who were treated by the doctor.

The letter said "concerns have been raised about some care given by Dr Delport, including photographs taken by him".

An NHS Kent and Medway spokesman said at the time: "In the letter, NHS Kent and Medway has informed patients that concerns have been raised about some care given by one of the doctors, Dr Barend Delport, who has since resigned."

DCI David Chewter, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "Barend Delport's behaviour was an appalling and gross breach of the trust that patients, some of whom were vulnerable, had placed in him as a general practitioner.

"Delport didn't discriminate when it came to his victims, who were of all ages. As our investigation progressed we identified more victims who had been concerned about his treatment, but had not reported it, and I am pleased we were able to identify them so they could be reassured that their concerns were justified."

A spokesman for The Oaks said: "The partners of The Oaks Surgery are still trying to come to terms with the shocking crimes of Dr Delport, and both patients and staff feel betrayed by his behaviour.

"We deeply regret the impact this has had on our patients and the local community.

"We would like to thank all those patients who helped to bring him to justice, and to express our gratitude to patients for their letters and telephone calls of support for the practice.

"All the appropriate and relevant steps have been taken to ensure the processes followed at the practice to safeguard adults and children are as robust and safe as possible. The welfare of patients is our utmost concern."