FAMILIES living near a convicted sex offender - who has been named and shamed by a national newspaper - have given their backing to the campaign.

Kevin Milton, of Bourne Close, who is on probation after exposing himself to children this year, is featured on the News of the World's Internet database naming 110,000 convicted paedophiles.

He hit the headlines in January when the Advertiser featured a campaign to move the 34-year-old out of the area.

Milton, whose home is near a school bus stop, served nine months in jail for a sex attack and indecent exposure in 1984 and was given a suspended jail sentence for sex with a girl under 16 in 1987.

His photograph and details of his crimes feature on the website which was set up after the murder of eight-year-old Sussex girl Sarah Payne.

Concerned residents have welcomed the move saying families have a right to know who lives nearby.

One angry householder, who recently moved to the town, said: "If I had known he was living just around the corner I wouldn't have moved here.

"I completely support the campaign and I think the benefits outweigh the negatives."

Scores of neighbours agreed saying people should be made aware of convicted paedophiles living in their area.

Pensioner William Cotton, of Ombersley Street West, said: "I think it's an excellent idea.

"If residents know about these people, they can take steps to protect their children or grandchildren."

One father said: "If you know what they look like you can make your children aware.

"But there are pros and cons. It is good to identify them but will they then go underground?"

A West Mercia Police spokesman told the Advertiser the force was opposed to the indiscriminate publication of sex offenders' details.

He said it could cause serious problems with people leaving their addresses meaning police have difficulty locating them.