A MAN from Pwllheli who was formerly a member of a Welsh language band has been cleared of a sexual offence charge.

Alun Jones Williams, 26, of Siop Fawr, had been charged with engaging in sexual communication with a child relating to an incident in Gwynedd last year.

At Caernarfon Crown Court today (April 17), the charge was dropped after the prosecution offered no evidence.

Williams, who was previously a member of the band Bwncath, remains a man of good character.

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He said: “It is a relief that justice prevailed at the end of the day.

“I was held in custody for over 30 hours because of a rushed charging decision after a baseless accusation was made against me. 

“I was then refused bail and made to attend court in custody.  There was no proper assessment of the evidence and my good name was tarnished because of this.

“I want to thank Michael Strain, the staff at Strain and Co, together with my barrister Elen Owen, for their work, commitment, and support during this whole process.

“Above all, however, I want to thank my family and friends who have given me love and support through this hellish nightmare over the last six months.

“I wouldn't wish this experience upon anybody; my life will never be the same again.

“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.

“Thank you all for the support that has been shown to me and my family over these excruciating six months.”

Williams has also been a teacher in Gwynedd.

Following today's court hearing, a Gwynedd Council spokesperson said: “In accordance with schools’ employment procedures, any member of staff in a position of trust who has been arrested by the police is suspended from their post until all investigations have been completed.

"Suspension is a neutral act without prejudice.

“Whilst we note today’s decision by the court, it would not be appropriate for us to comment on the employment status of an individual employee.”