KENT police have praised the decision to uphold the conviction of Michael Stone.

After the Court of Appeal's judgement, Assistant Chief Constable Peter Philpot said: "We are delighted with the result. The evidence in this case has been thoroughly tested over a number of years, at a number of different venues.

"The evidence of Damian Daley is not the only evidence in this case. For many years there has been a dedicated team of officers in this investigation and I want to take this opportunity to thank those involved for their professionalism.

"Kent Police has had tremendous support from the Crown Prosecution Service. They have stood by us throughout and we are extremely grateful for their advice and guidance, often in difficult circumstances.

"I would also like to commend the resilience and courage of Dr Shaun Russell, Josie and Lin's parents. We hope they can now move forward with their lives."

CPS reviewing lawyer Mike George said: "The evidence in this case has been subject to crown court trial, two independent inquiries, and today by a detailed analysis by the Court of Appeal.

"At each stage the evidence has been found and confirmed to be intact throughout all of these inquiries.

"After nine years of thorough and painstaking investigation by Kent Police and the CPS, there remains no doubt of Michael Stone's guilt.

"It has been said that Michael Stone continues to protest his innocence, it is worth remembering, as was twice pointed out by the Court of Appeal, that Michael Stone has chosen never to give evidence to support this chosen claim."