Police Launch Probe Into 1980s Sex Abuse Claims at Former Private School
Hampshire Constabulary has opened a criminal investigation into alleged sexual abuse of children at a private independent school during the 1980s.
Operation Seaside Targets Decades-Old Abuse Allegations
Dubbed ‘Operation Seaside,’ the probe aims to gather vital information about the nature and wider context of the claims from over 30 years ago. Detectives are determined to uncover the truth behind these disturbing allegations.
Former Roman Catholic School Shut Its Doors in 1997
The school at the centre of the investigation, Bembridge School, taught children aged 9 to 17 before closing on 23rd September 1997. It had no links to the current owners of the site.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said:
“We have received a report of sexual offences alleged to have taken place at Bembridge School some time in the 1980s. Our enquiries are ongoing and at this time we are not in a position to confirm any further details.”
Current Site Owners Deny Any Connection to Abuse Allegations
The former Bembridge School grounds are now owned by Ryde School with Upper Chine. Headmaster Mark Waldron clarified the school had no involvement with the establishment during the period in question.
“Ryde School merged with Upper Chine Girls’ School in 1994 and later acquired the buildings and land of Bembridge School when it closed in 1997. Since then, Ryde has used part of the site to house boarders and leases the rest to an outdoor education firm. While we are saddened by these historic allegations and willing to assist police, we cannot comment on another school’s history.”
Police Urge Anyone With Information to Come Forward
If you have information or concerns about sexual abuse at Bembridge School, contact Hampshire Police on 101, quoting ‘Operation Seaside’.
