A Berkshire property owned by the iconic pop legend, Sir Cliff Richard, has been searched by police after it was alleged he committed a sexual offence against a young boy in the 1980s.

No arrest
South Yorkshire police confirmed they are investigating the allegations which have already been circulating on the internet for quite a while. Previously, 73 year old Sir Cliff Richard refused to comment, but now he has issued a statement saying: "For many months I have been aware of allegations against me of historic impropriety which have been circulating online. The charges 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.€ Sir Cliff went on to say, "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."

Operation Yewtree
South Yorkshire Police say that the investigation is not related to Operation Yewtree, which was launched in October 2012 after hundreds of sexual abuse allegations were made against the deceased television personality, Jimmy Savile. Despite there being no connection, information regarding the search of Sir Richard's home has been passed on to police involved with Operation Yewtree.

Luxury accommodation
The 3.1m luxury apartment owned by Sir Cliff is part of an elite complex and boasts tennis courts, a spa and pool, all lying among 20acres of verdant grounds. A police helicopter was seen circling above the complex earlier this afternoon, but a further police presence was not reported.

Holidaying in Portugal
The star of Summer Holiday and numerous other family favourites is presently in Portugal with his sister, and it is reported that he has no plans to return to England anytime soon. Speaking on the singer's behalf, Phil Hall confirmed that he will not be submitting any further comments, or participating in any interviews at this time.

Record breaking artist
Sir Cliff Richard is the best-selling male British singer of all time, and has sold 21.5 million singles. The artist also holds the title of the only singer to have at least one UK top five album in each of the past seven decades. The singer shot to stardom with his backing band The Shadows and became the male pinup of the 1960s when he appeared in the film, Summer Holiday.

Rise in publicity
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