Cliff Richard denies allegations 'involving boy under the age of 16' after house is raided by police

Sir Cliff Richard has defended himself after police officers raided his home following sexual abuse claims against a boy in the 1980s.

By Dave Lancaster |

18:42 14 August 2014

Summer Holiday singing legend Cliff Richard has spoken out about the "completely false" allegations "back to the 1980s involving a boy who was under the age of 16 at the time" as a media storm threatens to engulf his squeaky clean career.

Confirming a raid on Sir Cliff's property, South Yorkshire Police issued this statement: "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."

It has been confirmed that the operation is not related to Operation Yewtree - the investigation launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile child abuse scandal.

Sir Cliff released a statement defending himself: "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."

As yet, the details surrounding the case are minimal but more information is expected to quickly come to light.