ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

BREAKING NEWS: Ched Evans Wins Rape Conviction Appeal

BREAKING NEWS: Ched Evans Wins Rape Conviction Appeal

He now faces a retrial.

Sian Broderick

Sian Broderick

Footballer Ched Evans has won his appeal against a conviction for rape and faces a retrial.

The 27-year-old ex-Wales international was jailed in 2012 for raping a 19-year-old at a hotel in north Wales.

He was released from jail in 2014 after serving half of his five-year term.

According to reports, three appeal judges quashed the conviction this morning following appeal proceedings last month. However, details of the grounds of appeal can not be reported for legal reasons.

His family issued a statement following the decision.

The statement said: "We all welcome today's decision by the Court of Appeal. The evidence which had been previously unseen proved without doubt that Ched Evans is and has always been innocent.

"Ched would like to thank all of his family, friends, legal team and football supporters from around the country especially those of Sheffield United for their support, encouragement and belief.

"Today's decision and the whole process could not have been possible without the unconditional love, belief and support of Natasha and both families. However, there are no winners and no celebration.

"Finally, Ched would like to place on record his thanks to the judiciary for carrying out a detailed process, repaying his faith in the legal system and confirming that Ched was correct in maintaining his innocence from day one.

"No further statements will be made, but we would respectfully request that Ched, Natasha, their families and others affected are now given time and space to start rebuilding their lives."

However, lawyer Ashley Connick pointed out this morning's decision is 'not a decision on his guilt or otherwise'.

A retrial is expected to take place within the next two months.

Featured Image Credit: