Sir Cliff still a suspect, insist police

Having failed to find any evidence to back-up the allegations that 75-year-old Richard abused two boys in 1985, speculation is mounting that the 13-month old investigation could be halted.

And more than a year after his Berkshire home was raided by detectives in a blaze of publicity, and increasing criticism over the way historic sex investigations are being handled, the police are coming under increasing pressure to bring their inquiries to a conclusion.

A pal said: “Cliff has given the police evidence that he was never on his own on the days when the alleged attacks took place”.

However, since investigations began, Sir Cliff has always strenuously denied all the allegations.

“I have never, in my life, assaulted anyone and I remain confident that the truth will prevail”, he said. “I have cooperated fully with the police, and will, of course, continue to do so”.

The paper has reported that Richard’s friend, who asked not to be named, said that the singer had given police evidence that he was never alone with two men who claim that he attacked them, in incidents that are said to have occurred in the 1980s. The friend has reportedly claimed that officers have also found inconsistencies in the description given by Sir Cliff’s accuser of the Sheffield rally.

The developments come as the singer prepares to embark on a national tour to celebrate his 75th birthday, starting in Birmingham on September 29. The tour will end in a five-night run at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Sir Cliff who was recently seen at the funeral of close friend Cilla Black has also been recording a new album in Nashville.