Cliff Richard claims the Press knew before him that  police would searched his home
Police have received calls from a "number of people" about Cliff Richard, said police Getty

A "number of people" have contacted police with information about Sir Cliff Richard after the singer's home was searched, according to reports.

South Yorkshire Police said it was contacted by numerous people in the hours after the singer's penthouse apartment in Sunningdale, Berkshire, was searched by officers.

Richard has strongly denied a claim he sexually abused a boy during the 1980s who was under 16.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire police said: "Since the search took place, a number of people have contacted the police to provide information."

Police removed items from Richard's home during the day on Thursday as they probed the claim against one of the UK's most fondly admired entertainers.

Speaking out against the allegation and also online rumours, Richard said: "The allegations are completely false. Up until now I have chosen not to dignify the false allegations with a response, as it would just give them more oxygen."

He is not in the UK at present and is understood to be staying at his luxury villa in Portugal.