The BBC has named the doctor at the centre of historical sexual abuse claims in Whitchurch, first revealed in the Herald, as Dr Gerard Rogerson.

One person – ‘Tom’ – approached the paper to tell his story of the abuse he suffered at the hands of the respected family GP, who was based at Bark Hill House surgery.

Four more victims came forward after reading his story, including ‘Jane’, who alleged she was abused twice at different ages by Rogerson.

Since the story broke before the summer, West Mercia Police has confirmed that 11 people in total have made complaints of historical sexual abuse by Rogerson, who died in 2000.

Those who have come forward have kept the abuse from their families for decades, but each complainant has all told similar tales of abuse and named the same person, independently.

Lawyers for the men and women who are alleging the abuse told the BBC that they were children in the 1970s when the abuse took place.

Victoria Neale, from Hudgell Solicitors, said: “Given the police now say 11 people have contacted them making similar allegations of historic sex abuse in Whitchurch, we feel it is in the public interest to fully investigate these allegations and we encourage anybody with any more information to come forward.”

DCI Paul Moxley of West Mercia Police, confirmed the force has received the complaints.

He said: “Over the past six months, West Mercia Police has received a total of 11 reports of non-recent sexual offences in Whitchurch, Shropshire.

“All of the victims have been contacted and are assisting the police with their ongoing enquiries.

“It is important that people who have been victims of abuse have the confidence to speak out, knowing that they will be listened to and supported.

“I would encourage them to come forward so that we can work with the victims of such crimes and offer support and assistance where possible.”