By The Webmaster
July 31 2002

Neath rugby star Hywel Jenkins has been cleared from allegations of rape. Mr Jenkins, aged 26, walked free after the case was dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service before coming to trial. After being cleared, Mr Jenkins hit out at a legal system which allows him to be publicly identified while the woman remains anonymous.

His solicitor said the Neath player was also considering suing South Wales Police for alleged wrongful arrest.

The married Wales A player strongly denied raping the 28-year-old woman at a house in Bridgend.

He had been at the party with a number of top rugby players including British Lions and Wales hero Scott Gibbs.

He was charged with rape seven weeks ago - and released on bail on the condition he did not contact Gibbs and four other witnesses.

But during a five-minute hearing in Cardiff Crown Court yesterday, the CPS said the case was being halted on the grounds of insufficient evidence.

Mr Jenkins's barrister Gregory Bull said:

"We are happy to accept this and do not wish to press for a trial. But if we did we would be confident of acquittal." Mr Jenkins, of Glanmor Road, Swansea, spoke in court only to confirm his name - and to thank the judge who freed him.

Outside the court he said: "I feel like I was the victim. I've been through hell for the last seven weeks and it is a great relief for them to admit to that.

"My rugby club has been very supportive.

I have had hundreds of cards wishing me support.

"I was thrust into the spotlight and made to feel guilty. I feel the victim of the criminal justice system - and my name should never have been made public.

"My family and parents have been put through hell while the girl is going to keep her anonymity." Mr Jenkins claimed police had not handled the case properly.