A SEX offender from Warminster who took advantage of a distressed child has failed to convince top judges to cut his jail term.

Michael Victor Burgess, of Glebe Bungalows, Wylye, was locked up for 13 years at Swindon Crown Court on September 15 last year.

The 43-year-old was convicted of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl aged under 13, London's Appeal Court heard.

Branded a danger to the public, he was also ordered to serve an extra three years on licence after his release.

When his 11 or 12-year-old victim was 'upset', Burgess 'took advantage of her distress', said the judge.

He 'began to comfort her' but then kissed her, going on to have sex with her.

The psychological impact on the victim was 'serious, long-lasting and wide-ranging' and the judge who jailed Burgess said he had 'targeted' his victim.

Burgess previously got nine years, with an extended licence period of three years, for other sex offences in May 2011, the court heard.

on Tuesday (may 22) But his lawyers argued his latest jail term was far too tough and should be reduced.

Lady Justice Thirlwall, who was sitting with two other senior judges, rejected the appeal.

She concluded: "We are quite satisfied that the sentence imposed by the judge was neither wrong in principle nor manifestly excessive."