Guitarist not guilty of sexual communication charge

Alun Williams had denied the charge of having sexual communication with a child under 16

A teacher and former member of Welsh folk and rock group Bwncath who was charged with sexual communication with a child has been found not guilty.

Alun Williams, 26, from Y Ffôr, near Pwllheli, Gwynedd said he was held in custody for "over 30 hours" because of a "rushed charging decision after a baseless accusation was made".

The prosecution offered no evidence at Caernarfon Crown Court.

Mr Williams said: "I wouldn't wish this experience upon anybody; my life will never be the same again."

The teacher and musician said he was "extremely pleased" and said "it is a relief that justice prevailed at the end of the day".

He said after he was held in custody he was then refused bail.

"There was no proper assessment of the evidence and my good name was tarnished because of this.

"I am going to take time with family and friends and bring my life together again, and to try and put this trauma behind me. There is no doubt that this torment will stay with me forever."

Prosecuting, Georgia Donohue told the court: "After we have reviewed this case, we have decided not to offer any evidence against Mr Williams."

Judge Nicola Saffman said he was not guilty and free to leave the court.

Elen Owen, the defending barrister said: "If this investigation had been done in the right way, I don't think Mr Williams would have been charged at all."

The band Bwncath said: "We do not feel it is appropriate to make any further statements as a band, but as individuals we wish everyone who has been affected by this case the best going forward."