Pianist James Rhodes Can Publish Abuse Memoir

A concert pianist has hailed a ruling that gives him the go-ahead to release a book about sexual abuse he suffered as a child as a victory for freedom of speech - and victims.

The Supreme Court has lifted an injunction which barred the publication of James Rhodes' autobiographical book, Instrumental.

The 40-year-old was at the court in London to hear a panel of judges rule in his favour.

He was joined by the actor Benedict Cumberbatch, a friend from school days.

They hugged outside court after the ruling.

The injunction temporarily blocking publication of parts of the book was granted by the Court of Appeal after Mr Rhodes' ex-wife expressed fears the details would come to the attention of their 12-year-old son and cause him "serious harm".

Mr Rhodes then went to the Supreme Court for a ruling.

Five Supreme Court justices analysed the case at a hearing in London in January, and announced their decision on Wednesday.

Justices had said Mr Rhodes could not be identified in news reports or on social media, a restriction that has been lifted in light of the ruling.

They have now ruled Mr Rhodes can be named, but the names of his son and ex-wife should not be made public.

Mr Rhodes said afterwards: "This is a victory for freedom of speech.

"If this had been allowed to continue anyone could have used this to ban any book.

"We do not ban books in this country."

He added that the decision also sent a message to abuse victims: "I was told not to tell when I was a child.

"Children are told not to tell. The message is 'tell someone'.

"This is a victory for victims."

Mr Rhodes said his son would not be harmed by the book, which is set to be published in the near future.

He said: "I love him more than anything. I am his father.

"He is not going to read the book. This is not a children's book."

Mr Cumberbatch said: "We have been friends since school. I am here to give my support.

He continued: "It is a very emotional moment ... It is a searing vindication of freedom of speech."