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Fans of the Welsh band Lostprophets have spoken of their shock at the rock frontman facing child sex charges in South Wales.
The singer is due to appear at a magistrates court today accused of attempting to solicit sex with an underage female as well as being in possession of illegal images. South Wales police issued the following statement:
"A Pontypridd man has been charged with sexual offences against children and is due to appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court today.
"The 35-year-old has been charged with conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a female under 13 and possession/distribution of indecent images of children.
"In order to assist their investigation, South Wales Police has named the man as Ian Watkins, a member of the rock group Lostprophets."
Now, fans of the band have taken to Twitter to express their shock at the news.
"Omg just heard about Ian Watkins, ohhh no, I saw him live on my birthday oh god :(" tweeted Derpy Giraffe.
"I don't know what to say about Ian Watkins... I love him. I love the whole band. I feel so lost right now...," added Billy Shakespeare.
One fan spoke of her disbelief at the news, tweeting: "Will never believe the lies pal! Standing behind you all the way, and my thoughts are always with your family."
Katie Murdoch said: "Hoping the allegations about Ian Watkins aren't true :("
Watkins (left) with two of his Lostprophet bandmates
The social network was also flooded with people making jokes of the situation and using Watkins arrest as an opportunity to criticise Lostprophets.
"I'm shocked by this Ian Watkins thing. The press are calling him a musician," tweeted Matty Harris.
The network was also flooded with jokes such as "I used to proper fancy Ian Watkins when I was like 14/15. Damn, never knew I had an actual chance with him," tweeted by Jen Litwinski.
Watkins is due to appear in court today (19 December, 2012)
Photos: Lostprophets: suited and booted in Manchester
