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Charlie Webster resigns as Sheffield United patron in protest over Ched Evans

Sheffield United patron Charlie Webster resigns from her role in protest over the return of convicted rapist Ched Evans, who is back training with the club.

TV presenter and women's rights campaigner Charlie Webster has resigned from her role as Sheffield United patron following the news that convicted rapist Ched Evans is back training with the club.

It was confirmed yesterday that the striker, who was released from prison last month after serving half of his sentence for rape, will link up with the Blades once more in order to regain fitness.

Webster has made it clear in the past that she would rethink her position at the League One outfit should they hire Evans once more.

Speaking to BBC Sport about her decision, the 32-year-old said: "At no point have Sheffield United acknowledged the extremity of his crime - nobody is making a decision [at the club] and I suppose I feel I need to make a decision as a patron of Sheffield United.

"Sheffield United haven't made a statement for four months and today, in fact, I had a conversation with the Chairman. It was a positive conversation and I walked away from that. I read the statement and I looked at what the club were saying, and the stance that they've taken and the stance that the PFA have taken.

"My decision, which I informed the club earlier on, is that I resign as patron of Sheffield United and Sheffield United Community Foundation, which is all about inspiring the next generation through sport."

Over 155,000 people have signed a petition against Evans returning to Sheffield United.

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Daniel Lewis
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Sheffield United player Ched Evans in action during the npower League One game between Sheffield United and Chesterfield at Bramall Lane on March 28, 2012
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