Abuse Claim Islander Weeps As Key Witness Admits Lies

One of the people arrested and charged with child abuse on Lewis three years ago yesterday broke down in tears as he was told that a key witness has admitted that her claims were lies. Peter Nelson said his life had been ruined since police and social workers investigated the claims made by Angela Stretton, who suffers from learning difficulties, and three children. The charges were all later dropped.

It has emerged that Ms Stretton has now written to the police confessing that some of the allegations she made were false. In the letter, she says that she was put under pressure through persistent questioning, and was told that she had to tell the truth for the children. She also says that she supposes that she told her interrogators what they wanted to hear, and now wants to clear the names of those she accused.

Mr Nelson, aged 61, moved to Lewis with his daughter Mary-Anne in 1998 and the allegations about them were made in October 2003.

Mary-Anne was arrested but not charged, but her father and the others who were accused were taken to Inverness Prison ahead of a court appearance.

Yesterday he told how, on his release, they have been abused by neighbours, shop staff and many other people.

He said: “I have been threatened and had my property damaged many times. I am pleased that Angela Stretton has had the courage to admit that she lied, but she should have done it long ago.”

Eight people had appeared in court accused of raping and abusing children in satanic rituals.

Mr Nelson yesterday said that there were a few people on Lewis who had stood by them. Several people have been interviewed or prosecuted for attacks on the Nelsons.

A Social Work Inspection Agency report concluded that three children from one family had experienced severe and prolonged abuse.

A spokesman for Western Isles Council said it was confident that the correct procedures were followed.