Oldham council leader Jim McMahon has called on members of the public to "show some restraint and calm" in the wake of news that Oldham Athletic have decided against signing convicted rapist Ched Evans.
Reports emerged earlier this week revealing that the League One outfit were keen to sign the Welshman, although it was announced this morning that the club had opted out of making a move due to a public outcry.
On the back of sponsors withdrawing their backing from the Latics, as well as a fan petition building momentum, it was decided that a deal could no longer go ahead.
"I've always believed in rehabilitation but felt that both club and player should have allowed Mr Evans's appeal to run its course before agreeing a contract," McMahon said in a statement. "As it stands Mr Evans has been found guilty in a court of law and has not yet completed his sentence. However, I take no pleasure in this outcome.
"The whole episode has divided the town and public opinion and there are no winners in all this - not least of all the reputation of our club and town.
"In recent days we've seen an horrendous 'trial by social media' with intimidation, abuse and harassment on a scale that has cast a terrible shadow. I am urging people on all sides of this debate to please now take stock, show some restraint and calm."
Evans was released from prison in October after serving half of a five-year sentence for raping a woman in 2011.
Daniel Lewis
