South Yorkshire Police Search Sir Cliff Richard's House In Alleged Sexual Assault

14 August 2014, 13:32 | Updated: 14 August 2014, 14:32

Police are searching a property believed to belong to Sir Cliff Richard in relation to the alleged sexual assault of a boy in the 1980s.

South Yorkshire Police said it has entered a property in Sunningdale, Berkshire, after receiving an allegation of a sexual nature dating back to the 1980s involving a boy who was under 16 at the time. 

Nobody has been arrested at the property belongs to veteran star Sir Cliff.

In a statement, the force said: `

South Yorkshire Police has gained entry to a property in the Sunningdale area of Berkshire.

'Officers are currently searching the property.

'A search warrant was granted after police received an allegation of a sexual nature dating back to the 1980s involving a boy who was under the age of 16 at the time.

'No one has been arrested and the owner of the property was not present.'

The search is not connected to Scotland Yard's Operation Yewtree, launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal.

Sir Cliff Richard has released a statement:

'For many months I have been aware of allegations against me of historic impropriety which have been circulating online. The allegations are completely false.

'Up until now I have chosen not to dignify the false allegations with a response, as it would just give them more oxygen.

'However, the police attended my apartment in Berkshire today without notice, except it would appear to the press.

'I am not presently in the UK but it goes without saying that I will co-operate fully should the police wish to speak to me.

'Beyond stating that today's allegation is completely false it would not be appropriate to say anything further until the police investigation has concluded.'