Photo: Luke Hannaford
Former Neck Deep guitarist Lloyd Roberts has spoken out about being accused of sending an 'explicit message' to an underage fan, following a police investigation.
Back in August, the band revealed that Roberts had left to band in order to 'get to the bottom' of the accusations, leaving the rest of the band to focus on their music and touring their No.8 album, Life's Not Out To Get You.
Now, Roberts has released the following statement:
“In August this year I stepped down from Neck Deep after serious allegations were directed at me online.
"I was horrified and sickened by these accusations and in order to clear my name, I contacted the police myself and asked them to investigate.Now, following a thorough investigation by North Wales Police, I received confirmation yesterday that officers have found no case for me to answer and that their investigation is now closed.It has been an immensely difficult time for both me and my family. When these claims surfaced I’d just become a dad for the first time and so the situation I found myself in with these accusations caused us all a great deal of emotional distress.
"I also felt the need to step down from Neck Deep just as we were beginning to get the recognition we’d all worked so hard to achieve.I’m now looking to put this horrendous chapter in my life behind me as I instead look forward to the future. For me, that means doing the one thing I love the most – writing and recording music.
"I’ve got some exciting plans in development, so watch this space.In the meantime I’d like to thank all of the Neck Deep fans who stuck with me and offered me support over the past few months. It meant a lot to me.
"I’d also like to wish my Neck Deep comrades all the best for the future. I’m sure our paths will cross again soon.
"Thanks,
"Lloyd Roberts.”
Meanwhile, Neck Deep will be touring next year with State Champs, Creeper and Light Years. Full tour dates are below. For tickets and information, visit here.
February 2016
1 Birmingham Institute
2 Glasgow O2 Academy
4 Manchester Academy
5 Cardiff Great Hall
6 London Forum
