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Members of Welsh rock band Lostprophets are “in a state of shock” after lead singer Ian Watkins was accused of plotting to rape a baby.

The 35-year-old frontman appeared in court yesterday charged with six child sex offences - including conspiring with a female fan, 24, to rape a one-year-old girl.

The singer and two women, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are also accused of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a girl under 13.

Watkins - a former boyfriend of TV presenter Fearne Cotton - was further charged with three separate charges of possession, making and distributing indecent images of children.

He is also accused of possession of “extreme pornography”, some involving animals.

Watkins’ bandmates - Jamie Oliver, Lee Gaze, Luke Johnson, Mike Lewis and Stuart Richardson – released a statement on their website today speaking of their “shock”.

(Image: Getty)

They said: “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.”

Watkins was arrested on Monday and was refused bail following yesterday’s hearing at Cardiff Magistrate’s Court.

Two women - one aged 20 from Doncaster and the other 24 from Bedford - were also brought to the Welsh capital where they were also arrested and appeared in court alongside Watkins.

All three are due to appear in Cardiff Crown Court on December 31.

Lostprophets, who formed in 1997, have cancelled a pre-planned tour following Watkins’ arrest.