A Rochdale primary school is being investigated for allegations of sexual abuse on three young girls which began more than 30 years ago.
Three women now aged 24, 25 and 21, who were aged between eight and ten years old at the time, were allegedly abused at St Vincent’s Primary school in Norden between 1980 and 2000.
An 82-year-old man has been interviewed under caution and the offences were said to have taken place at an adjacent presbytery.
Detective Constable Christian Chivers, from Greater Manchester Police’s Public Protection Investigation Unit, said: “I want to reassure local residents, and more importantly parents of children currently at St Vincent’s, that these are historical incidents.
“While we do not believe there is any reason for current pupils or their families to be unduly concerned, this is extremely serious and upsetting for the victims in this case, who we are continuing to provide specialist support to.”
Investigating officers are working closely with Salford Diocese as part of the investigation.
Police are now appealing to any former pupils of the school who may have information about the offences to come forward.
DC Chivers added: “I want to reassure anyone who might want to report any incidents or offences that we treat all allegations of sexual abuse extremely seriously and in the strictest confidence and we have officers on hand to deal with your complaints swiftly and sympathetically.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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