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Cliff Richard cancels Canterbury Cathedral charity performance
By Andy Malt | Published on Wednesday 20 August 2014
Cliff Richard has cancelled a performance at Canterbury Cathedral, in the wake of a police investigation into accusations of sexual abuse by the singer. The appearance was due to take place at a charity event next month.
As previously reported, Cliff Richard’s Berkshire home was searched by police last week, in relation to allegations of the sexual assault of a boy under the age of sixteen at a Christian faith rally in 1985. The singer has denied the claims, saying that they are “completely false”, and adding that he will “co-operate fully” with the police investigation. Police have since complained to the BBC over its conduct in reporting the case.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the singer told reporters: “Sir Cliff was due to perform on 26 Sep at a charitable event in Canterbury Cathedral but doesn’t want the event to be overshadowed by the false allegation and has therefore withdrawn. He is sorry for any disappointment or inconvenience caused”.
Earlier this week, Cilla Black came out in support of Richard, telling The Mirror: “Cliff is a very close friend of mine and has been for a million years. I, like everyone else, was shocked to hear of these allegations and I am absolutely positive that they are without foundation”.
