Local YouTube star apologises for sending ‘inappropriate’ messages

It is understood allegations were made about Craig ‘Mini Ladd’ Thompson’s behaviour online last month.

The allegations relate to messages he sent a number of years ago, which he admitted were unacceptable.

Craig Thompson, who was born in Dubai but moved to Eglinton when he was ten-years-old began making YouTube videos in his bedroom.

His Mini Ladd channel had 5.74 million subscribers, while another 1.13 million followed his updates as Craig Thompson.

In 2019, he was named number three out of the Top 100 Influencers in the UK by the Sunday Times.

The 24-year-old, who moved to LA as his popularity increased, embarked on a sell out tour of America last year and had spoke to the ‘Journal’ of his hopes to bring it to Derry at some stage this year.

He was also due to release his first single last month, but it is understood this project has been shelved in light of the allegations.

Thompson had sponsored City of Derry RFC since late 2017 and the Temple Road stadium had been renamed in his honour.

He had been a regular visitor at the club when he was in Derry and had a trial with Ulster Rugby, before choosing to pursue a full time career as a YouTuber.
The sponsorship deal has now come to an end.

A spokesperson for the club said: City of Derry RFC said: “City of Derry RFC has become aware of personal circumstances relating to a sponsor. As of July 1, the club has ended it’s sponsorship arrangement with this individual.”

In a statement posted on his social media page, Mr Thompson said: “I take full responsibility for the inappropriate texts and messages I sent.

“I regret having said or sent anything that made anyone uncomfortable or upset.

“I am totally and deeply sorry for what I did.”

Mr Thompson said he intends to seek professional help and ‘personally apologise to those I have harmed’.

He added: “I know there is no righting my wrongs here, and I want to express again how sorry I am to the people I have hurt and the fans I have let down.

“I have a long road of personal searching ahead of me, so that is my focus now.”

Mr Thompson also suggested in his statement he would return to YouTube, stating “I will be back again when the time is right.”