December 31, 2012 13:02

Lostprophets' Ian Watkins remanded in custody until March over alleged child sex offences

Charges include conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a one-year-old girl and possession of indecent images

Photo: PA

Lostprophets singer, Ian Watkins, has reappeared before court today (December 31) on alleged child sex offence charges, including conspiracy to rape a one-year-old girl.

The 35-year-old appeared via video link at Cardiff Crown Court from Parc Prison, Bridgend. Wearing a black suit, shirt and tie Watkins appeared along with two other female defendants, aged 20 and 24 from Doncaster and Bedford, reports BBC News.

According to the Independent, Watkins spoke only to give his name at the hearing which lasted 10 minutes. All three defendants have been remanded further in custody, with a plea and case management hearing scheduled for March 11.

Watkins is accused of conspiracy to rape a one-year-old girl. He has been charged with two incidents of conspiring to engage in sexual touching with two young children and four offences relating to making, possessing and distributing indecent images of children.

The conspiracy offences were alleged to have taken place between May 1 and December 17, 2012, when Watkins was arrested. The pornography charges relate to a period between August 12 and December 17.

Following Watkins first appearance in court earlier this month, Lostprophets issued a statement in response to news that their singer is facing charges relating to child sex offences.

A statement on the Welsh band's official website read: "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. Jamie, Lee, Luke, Mike and Stu."

Lostprophets formed in Pontypridd in 1997 and released debut album 'Thefakesoundofprogress' in 2000. The band's fifth album, 'Weapons', was released on April 2, 2012.

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