British police are searching a house owned by singer Cliff Richard in connection with an alleged sex offence dating back to the 1980s.

South Yorkshire Police officers have gained entry to a property in the Sunningdale area of Berkshire. A search warrant was granted after a historical allegation of a sexual nature was made involving a boy who was under the age of 16 at the time.

No-one has been arrested and the owner of the property was not present, the force said.

Mr Richard has released a statement this afternoon.

"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," the statement says.

"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 co-operate 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," it adds.

Reporter Martin Brunt said officers have removed several items from the house.

"It is a property believed to be owned by Sir Cliff Richard," said Brunt.

"He is not thought to be in the UK at the moment - last seen a week ago in Portugal, where he held a concert at his wine estate. He owns a vast property there with a vineyard where he produces wine. He also has a home in Barbados."

"He has said in the past that he spends the summers in Portugal and the winters in Barbados."

"But South Yorkshire police underlining that nobody has been arrested and the owner of the property, thought to be Cliff Richard, was not present while the search was carried out."

"It is thought a number of items were removed from the property. One other thing to point out is that this isn't part of Scotland Yard's investigation into historic sex crimes - Operation Yewtree," he added.

Detective Superintendent Matt Fenwick of South Yorkshire Police gave this information on the search.

Originally posted 13:13