Footballer Ched Evans has won an appeal against his conviction for raping a 19-year-old woman - but must face a fresh trial.

The Pink Un: Ched Evans playing for Sheffield United. Photo: PAChed Evans playing for Sheffield United. Photo: PA (Image: PA Wire)

The former Norwich City striker was convicted in April 2012 of raping a woman at a hotel in Rhyl, North Wales.

The 27-year-old was jailed for five years and released from prison in 2014 after serving half of his sentence.

The decision was announced on Thursday following appeal proceedings last month.

The Pink Un: Ched Evans playing for Norwich in 2008. Photo: Mark Chapman/Focus ImagesChed Evans playing for Norwich in 2008. Photo: Mark Chapman/Focus Images (Image: Focus Images 2008)

The former Sheffield United striker and Welsh international was present in the packed London courtroom with girlfriend Natasha Massey by his side to hear the result of his conviction challenge.

Lady Justice Hallett, Mr Justice Flaux and Sir David Maddison had heard submissions over two days from Kieran Vaughan QC, for Evans, and from Eleanor Laws QC, for the Crown.