A MINISTER has spoken out about the “insidious” effect of pornography as legislation restricting access to children came into force.

Parishioners at St Mary’s Church in Upper Street were warned that pornog­raphy – like many other addictions – could wreak havoc on their lives. In a recent sermon, lay minister Ian Mylam told the congregation: “I was amazed this week on hearing of the huge number of people who have facially registered for pornographic websites because of the new requirement for age-appropriate registration.”

Mr Mylam expressed his surprise that thousands had agreed to have their photos taken by porn sites to confirm that they meet the age limit.

The checks have come into place since the Online Safety Act came in this month, meaning that websites streaming pornography must verify all users are at least 18 years old.

The identity checks – which include registering by submitting proof of ID, for example a passport, home address and email address – are designed to make it more difficult for children to access harmful content.

He added: “A naturally addictive personality can find expression in other ways.

“Drugs and even medical prescriptions can lead to broken lives. Pornography never satisfies and has an insidious way of yanking people back into its clutches.”

It is that estimated 14 million people watch porn online in the UK.