Cliff Richard cancels cathedral gig after sex offence investigation

Sir Cliff Richard has pulled out of a show at Canterbury Cathedral in the wake and controversy of police searching his home in relation to a sexual offence investigation. 

Last week it was reported that a property in Sunningdale, Berkshire belonging to the singer was searched, with a number of items removed. Police said that the allegation in question is a historical offence, involving a boy under 16 and dated from the 1980s in the South Yorkshire area.

It has also been confirmed that the investigation is not related to Operation Yewtree - and Sir Cliff later issued a statement to strongly deny the claims. 

The 'Living Doll' hit-maker was due to perform at Canterbury Cathedral next month, but has now pulled out due to the media noise around the enquiry. 

"Sir Cliff was due to perform on 26 September at a charitable event in Canterbury Cathedral but doesn’t want the event to be overshadowed by the false allegation and has therefore withdrawn," said his spokesman. "He is sorry for any disappointment or inconvenience caused."

Meanwhile, South Yorkshire Police are under fire for releasing info about the investigation before any charges have been made - while fans are campaigning to get his track 'I Still Believe In You' to No.1 this week. 

Sir Cliff Richard has since issued the following statement regarding the allegations:

"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 cooperate 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."

 Sir Cliff, knighted in 1995, has sold more singles than any other male British artist and has set records as the only to have one top five ealbum in each of seven decades.