West Mercia Police has confirmed an investigation into a further 25 allegations of non-recent sexual abuse against a former Whitchurch GP has been closed.

The investigation, launched after the Whitchurch Herald carried 'Tom's' story of how he claimed he was abused by Dr Gerard Rogerson at the Bark Hill surgery in the 1970s.

A female victim – who turned out to be 'Tom's' sister – also came forward while another 24 people made statements to police.

And Superintendent Paul Moxley added that though it would be part of procedure, Dr Rogerson would have been interviewed under caution about the allegations had he been alive today.

“West Mercia Police has concluded its investigation into 26 allegations of non-recent sexual abuse made against a deceased general practitioner (GP) in Shropshire between the 1950s and 1980s," he said.

"The abuse is reported to have taken place while he was living and practising in Whitchurch.

"Allegations of this nature are always taken extremely seriously. The investigation has been thorough and proportionate, given the suspect is deceased. Our priority in this investigation has been to support those people who have come forward to report allegations of abuse and to ensure they are afforded the appropriate support and assistance.

"Following the investigation, and taking into account all of the information available, it has been established if the deceased man was alive today he would have been spoken to under caution by police as part of the investigation process. This would have been to outline the detail of the allegations made and provide him with an opportunity to offer an account following the reports.

"It is important to remember our proposed action would not in any way have been an indication of guilt, but would simply have been part of the investigation process to obtain an account, irrespective of whether or not this would have led to further action."

Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence is encouraged to report the incident to police, where specially-trained officers will help them with care and sensitivity and will work to get the right result for them with their wishes in mind.

Alternatively, there are many agencies which can be approached for help, guidance or support which offer a variety of services.

Visit www.westmercia.police.uk for more information and for a list of the agencies available in your area. Information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.