5:00pm Saturday 27th June 2009
A Pembroke Dock woman has resigned from the board of governors at the school where convicted sex offender David Thorley worked.
Following his recent trial, Christine Evans described the verdict as “a total miscarriage of justice”, adding: “I feel that it’s time for me to stand up and be counted.”
Her actions come as the school’s staff disciplinary committee prepares for an independent investigation into Thorley’s case.
“I believe completely in his innocence.
“Having known him for more than 15 years, both professionally and as a parent of three sons, I would consider him to be a personal friend," she said.
As a school governor and as the owner of R. M. Collins, a local school clothing and supplies shop, Mrs Evans has supported the school with various fundraising activities.
She said a “total silence block” has come over the the school in relation to Thorley's conviction.
“The school has been tremendously successful since [Thorley’s] been there.
“We are talking about a man who has given his whole life to teaching,” she added.
“I don’t think he was naive in his actions, I think it was a genuine care for children in difficult, and often vulnerable circumstances.”
In her letter of resignation to Phil Bowen, chairman of the governing body, Mrs Evans wrote: “This has not been an easy decision to make, but given the present circumstances and my ‘obvious’ support of Mr Thorley I feel it is best if I am not directly involved with the school.
“This way I am free to offer my support to Mr Thorley without implicating the governing body in any way.”
Mrs Evans also expressed her empathy for fellow governors in the letter, during what she acknowledged would be a “very difficult and stressful” time.
“Teachers are too frightened to do anything,” she told the Western Telegraph.
“They are scared about having contact with the children, even if it's just to comfort them.”
Thorley is expected to appeal against his convictions but no appeal had been lodged by Monday afternoon, the Court of Appeal told the Western Telegraph.
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