Cliff Richard launches legal action against BBC following live raid

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An investigation into the star was dropped earlier this year.

Sir Cliff Richard is launching legal action against the BBC and South Yorkshire Police following a raid of his house was broadcast live back in 2014.

Police investigating historical sex allegations raided the star’s home – which was broadcast live by the BBC.

Cliff Richard launches legal action against BBC following live raid

However, it was recently confirmed that all allegations against Sir Cliff would be dropped, due to “insufficient evidence to prosecute”.

The singer was never arrested nor charged and has repeatedly insisted that the allegations made against him were “absurd and untrue”.

Despite an apology from the BBC, Richard explained his decision to take legal action to fans of Facebook.

He said that he’s instructed his lawyers to make formal legal complaints so that “a Court will determine whether or not their behaviour was justified and proportionate”.

“It is important not only for me personally but much more widely,” he wrote.

“My life was effectively turned upside down and my reputation, worldwide, was unnecessarily damaged.

“I would not want the same to happen to others whether in the public eye or not,” he added.

The singer also said that “questions need to be answered by both the police and the BBC about their initial handling of my matter.”

Last month, Sir Cliff said he would never discuss his sexuality openly, shortly after the charges against him were dropped.

Cliff Richard launches legal action against BBC following live raid

“I always feel that I’m one of the most open people [to the world]… I’ve done more interviews for TV for sure, for press than anyone else alive on the planet,” he said.

“I don’t mind talking about things but there are things that are mine. That will go with me to my grave.

“And I’ve given up for instance, I don’t talk about my family, I certainly don’t talk about my sexuality.

In 2008, the Christian singer said that he “loves” the enigma around his sexuality.