Cliff Richard cleared of sexual abuse claims

London: Singer Cliff Richard is to face no further action following the South Yorkshire Police investigation into allegations of historical sexual abuse, it has been announced.

The singer, 75, has been plagued for two years by allegations that he abused boys during the 1980s.

Richard said he is "obviously thrilled that the vile accusations and the resulting investigation have finally been brought to a close", reports mirror.co.uk. 

"I have never molested anyone in my life," he added. 

South Yorkshire Police has also apologised "wholeheartedly for the additional anxiety caused" to Richard by the force's "initial handling of the media interest" in its investigation into the singer.

"Following an initial allegation received by the force in April 2014, South Yorkshire detectives have explored and gathered all information available and carried out a thorough and detailed investigation, which has covered the UK and abroad," the police said. 

"The investigation, which has spanned two years, is estimated to have cost in the region of 800,000 pounds, including staffing costs. After careful consideration of the evidence provided to them, the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) has concluded that no further action should be taken against the man due to there being insufficient evidence to prosecute," it added.