Ex-pupils of Lincoln Cathedral School sought in historic sex abuse investigation

Detectives investigating historic sexual offences at a Lincoln school are appealing for help to trace 127 of its past pupils.

Operation Redstone is an ongoing investigation into allegations of abuse at Lincoln Cathedral School dating back to 1958. It follows a review of safeguarding by the Diocese of Lincoln.

Earlier this week, 81-year-old Roy Griffiths fro Dorset was charged with six counts of indecent assault on a boy under the age of 14 and two counts of inciting a boy under the age of 14 to commit an act of gross indecency.

He was bailed to appear at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, June 8.

In March 2016, the former rector of Washingborough and Heighington Stephen Crabtree was jailed as part of enquiries for three years after pleading guilty to six charges of indecent assault on a 15-year-old girl.

Police say they are looking to speak with all those who attended the school between 1963 and 1970.

Detective Superintendent Rick Hatton of Lincolnshire Police said previously: “Our investigation into historic abuse is very much ongoing.

“We are keen to speak to former pupils who may have attended the school during that time. We are still reaching out to people who we think may be able to help us – both potential victims and any potential witnesses.

“It takes tremendous courage to talk about any sort of abuse but we want anyone who may have been affected to know how seriously we take all the information you give us.

“It may be that something happened to you personally, or perhaps you were a witness to something that you haven’t yet told anyone about – please be assured that our officers are here to listen and help, and will treat you and the information you give us in the utmost confidence.”

A spokesperson for Lincoln Cathedral said: “The Cathedral has throughout Operation Redstone worked proactively in partnership with Lincolnshire Police and stands ready to offer support to anyone who contacts them about issues of harm and abuse.

“The Cathedral can promise that they will listen attentively to their experiences, walk alongside them in seeking justice and ensure that their voices are heard.”

Anyone who would like to talk to the enquiry team is being advised to contact Lincolnshire Police on 101 quoting incident 208 of April 26 or ask for Operation Redstone during working hours.