Lostprophets' Shock At Watkins Sex Charges

The bandmates of Lostprophets lead singer Ian Watkins have said they are in a "state of shock" after his arrest on child sex abuse charges.

The 35-year-old appeared at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, accused of conspiring with a woman to rape a one-year-old girl.

The rock band's frontman was remanded in custody to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on December 31.

The other members of the band put a statement for their fans on their website on Wednesday night.

"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 read.

"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."

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

The conspiracy charges cover a period between May 1 and December 17 and the indecent images a period between August 12 and December 17.

Watkins was remanded in custody on Wednesday, along with two women, aged 24 and 20, who cannot be named.

The Lostprophets have sold more than 3.5 million albums worldwide with Watkins as their frontman.

A planned tour has been cancelled as a result of the sex allegations.