Ched Evans Wins Appeal Against Rape Conviction

21 April 2016, 10:02 | Updated: 21 April 2016, 10:03

The former Sheffield United striker Ched Evans has won his appeal against his conviction for raping a 19-year-old woman. But Court of Appeal judges in London have ordered that he must face a fresh trial.

The decision was announced following appeal proceedings last month.

The former Wales international was present in the packed London courtroom with girlfriend Natasha Massey by his side to hear the result of his conviction challenge.

Evans, now 27, was convicted in April 2012. He was found guilty at Caernarfon Crown Court of raping the woman at a hotel in Rhyl, North Wales.

His conviction was referred to the Court of Appeal for review by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), which investigates possible miscarriages of justice.

Lady Justice Hallett, announcing the court's decision, said the judges had heard "fresh evidence" during the appeal hearing on March 22 and 23.

She said: "In summary, we have concluded that we must allow the appeal and that it is in the interests of justice to order a retrial."

The court quashed Evans's conviction and declared: "The appellant will be retried on the allegation of rape."