In a week where police have apologised to Sir Cliff Richard over the “insensitive” raid on his Berkshire penthouse while he was on holiday at his home in the Algarve, the singer has come out on Facebook to thank the many hundreds of fans who have shown him support.
In a brief message aimed also at supporters in the press, Sir Cliff writes: “I wanted to let you know that I am ok and it goes without saying that I fully intend to clear my name.
“Just to be absolutely clear, the allegation is completely false and I will continue to cooperate with the police should they wish to speak to me again.”
Sir Cliff flew back to the UK the week after the high-profile raid to answer questions under caution from police investigating an historical allegation that he sexually abused a 16-year-old boy at a Christian rally almost three decades ago.
The legendary singer was not arrested, nor charged, and since volunteering his information a House of Commons Home Affairs Select Committee has been quizzing all involved in the media circus to try and apportion blame.
South Yorkshire Police – which led the raid – has already been criticised for its “gross lack of competence” in its dealings with the BBC, which itself was inundated with complaints after filming the raid as it went ahead.
Critics complained the situation had blackened Sir Cliff’s name, without any evidence having been put forward – and indeed, without giving the man at the centre of the claims any chance to respond.
In the meantime, Sir Cliff’s fans have been out in force, with hundreds pledging to buy his 1992 hit single “I believe in you” to get it to the top of the charts.
Three hours after this morning’s post on Facebook, Sir Cliff’s message had received over 11,840 likes and been shared 1,014 times.
