Lostprophets release statement after bandmate Ian Watkins arrested

The members of Welsh rock band Lostprophets said they were "in a state of shock" after learning bandmate Ian Watkins was in court facing child sex abuse allegations.

Watkins, 35, appeared in Cardiff Magistrates' Court yesterday facing a total of six charges relating to sexual offences against children.

His bandmates released a statement on their website saying: "Following charges made today against Ian Watkins, we find ourselves in a state of shock.

"We are learning about the details of the investigation along with you. It is a difficult time for us and our families, and we want to thank our fans for their support as we seek answers."

Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk

myprint-247

View details

Print voucher

Our heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.

Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk

Contact: 01858 468192

Valid until: Friday, May 31 2013

It was signed: "Jamie, Lee, Luke, Mike and Stu."

Watkins, of Pontypridd, is alleged to have conspired with another woman to rape a one-year-old girl, the court heard.

He is also accused of two incidents of conspiring to engage in sexual touching with two young children; possessing, making and distributing indecent images; and possessing "extreme" animal pornography.

The charges related to a period between May and December.

Presiding magistrate Alan Knight opted to remand Watkins - along with two women aged 20 and 24 - into custody. The women, who face similar child sex allegations, cannot be named for legal reasons. All three will appear before Cardiff Crown Court on Monday, December 31.