Two men charged over alleged plot targeting Joss Stone

Two men have been charged in connection with an alleged plot against soul singer Joss Stone.

Junior Bradshaw, 30, and Kevin Liverpool, 33, both from Manchester, are accused of conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm. Both men are due to appear at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

The pair were detained close to the star’s gated and walled home near the town of Cullompton in rural Devon.

Earlier the 24-year-old singer released a statement saying she is “absolutely fine and getting on with life as normal”.

Detective Inspector Steve Parker, from Devon and Cornwall Police, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our officers are currently carrying out reassurance patrols and it’s important to stress that no properties have been burgled and no individuals have been harmed.”

Exeter FM radio reporter Carrian Jones told Channel 4 News that Joss Stone, who grew up in Devon, is “very well known in the local community”.

She said: “Her mum owns a bar in nearby Exeter called Mama Stones, where I used to work. Joss will often perform small impromptu gigs there.

“Most people seem to be very shocked… locals have supported Joss as her success has grown, and I think people feel that it’s very surreal that there appears to have been some sort of plot to harm her.”

Ms Stone, who is due to begin a European tour next month, has thanked fans for their messages of concern and support.

The Sunday Times Rich list recently named her the fifth wealthiest British or Irish pop star aged under 30, with a fortune of £9m.

Stone’s soulful vocals have brought her major success in America where she has been called the “white Aretha Franklin”.

Stone is also a friend of Prince William‘s and was a guest at the Royal Wedding in April.