The coach of Britain’s Got Talent winners Spellbound today denied allegations of child cruelty and said he was determined to clear his name.
National gymnastics coach Neil Griffiths, 42, who led the group to victory in 2010, was this week charged with five counts of child cruelty over a five-year period.
He was arrested after the parents of three children alleged he mistreated youngsters as young as nine over five years.
But Griffiths, from Ashford, Surrey, issued a statement through his lawyer protesting his innocence.
He said: “I strongly deny the allegations of child cruelty made against me and am contesting all the charges. I am proud of my track record as a gymnastics coach and, though I am devastated that a decision has been taken to prosecute me, I welcome the opportunity publicly to clear my name.
“I am grateful for the overwhelming support I have received from so many gymnasts whom I have coached over the past 15 years, including World, European and British champions, and from their parents.
“Acrobatic gymnastics has been my life for as long as I can remember and, once this is over, I’m looking forward to getting back in the gym and doing the job I love.”
At least 15 million viewers saw Spelbound win BGT in 2010 and earn gushing praise from judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan.
The spectacular troupe also performed for a television audience of 500 million at the London Olympics closing ceremony.
Griffiths has been bailed to appear at Uxbridge magistrates’ court on June 17.
