THE report into child sex abuse at Ampleforth included praise and criticism of North Yorkshire Police investigations at the abbey.

It said the force conducted a number of criminal investigations into allegations at Ampleforth, and while "on occasions their approach was patchy", at least one investigation was properly pursued "in the face of opposition".

Detective Chief Inspector Andrea Kell who led the force's response to the IICSA, said: "We have carried out our own rigorous review of past investigations at Ampleforth, and while acknowledging the many positives in these investigations, we identified a number of matters which should have been done differently based on today’s standards. The criticisms set out by the Inquiry reflect those that we have identified ourselves."

DCI Kell said it was important that victims of abuse had the confidence to report their experiences to the police, and "the way child abuse is investigated has changed considerably over the years".

She said: "It does not matter when the abuse happened, whether it is happening now or if it happened many years ago.

"What is important is that you get the help and support you need, that wider safeguarding measures can be put in place and that any perpetrators are investigated and brought to justice. Your information may also help to protect other victims and help the police to build up a wider picture of someone’s offending."

*To report a sexual crime to the police call 101 or 999 if you are in immediate danger. Alternatively, phone Childline on 0800 1111, Supporting Victims on 01609 643100 or email help@supportingvictims.org