Peaches, Jarvis Cocker, Madonna – the list of celebrities coming out in support of Pussy Riot seems to be growing by the day.

The latest to throw their weight behind the Russian band – who stand accused of “hooliganism” after staging a protest in a Moscow cathedral – is ex-Beatle and all round nice fella Paul McCartney.

In a statement written to the three women, McCartney said: “I would like you to know that I very much hope the Russian authorities would support the principle of free speech for all their citizens and not feel that they have to punish you for your protest. Many people in the civilized world are allowed to voice their opinions and as long as they do not hurt anyone in doing so I believe this is the best way forward for all societies. I hope you can stay strong and believe that I and many others like me who believe in free speech will do everything in our power to support you and the idea of artistic freedom.”

The statement comes at a tense time: the band are due to be sentenced in a tomorrow, and, if convicted, could face up to three years in jail.