Lostprophets singer faces child sex charges

Ian Watkins, the lead singer of Welsh rockers Lostprophets has been charged with child sex offenses. The singer is charged with conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a female under 13 and possession/distribution of indecent images of children.

A spokesman said: "A Pontypridd man has been charged with sexual offences against children and is due to appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court today.

"In order to assist their investigation, South Wales Police has named the man as Ian Watkins, a member of the rock group Lostprophets."

Two women, aged 20 and 24, have also been charged with related offenses and were due to appear in court. All three were questioned at Cardiff Bay police station.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Peter Doyle said specially trained staff were available to speak to anyone with concerns or information regarding the investigation.

"I want to encourage anyone who has any concerns or information which they think may be relevant to contact us. Safeguarding children involved in such cases is always a high priority and as such measures have already been taken."

The Welsh rockers have sold over 3.5 million records worldwide. The band last played here back in April of this year, when their Weapons tour brought them to Dublin's Olympia Theatre and Belfast's Ulster Hall.