Tony Blair school claims rise

THE number of alleged sex abuse victims at Tony Blair’s former school has risen to 15 as police extend their probe.

Former PM Tony Blair attended the school from 1961 to 1966

Durham police confirmed that five more men, aged in their 60s, have claimed they were attacked at The Chorister School at Durham Cathedral.

As in all previous cases, the men accuse Canon John Grove, headmaster from 1957 to 1978, of sexual abuse. He died in 2001.

The surge in new cases comes as police revealed they are now looking for witnesses and new victims.

A spokesman said: “The investigation is still in the process of identifying victims and other people who may be able to assist police. At this stage no other staff member has been identified as being involved in any aspect of abuse other than John Grove.”

Current school headmistress Yvette Day is also helping police by providing historical records.

Liz Dux, of law firm Slater Gordon, who is representing five abuse claimants, welcomed the police action.

Comedian Rowan Atkinson also attended the school

“The investigation is still in the process of identifying victims and other people who may be able to assist police”

A spokesman

She is working for the original abuse claimant, also in his 60s, who told his story in the Daily Star Sunday.

She said: “Once again we have seen how it takes the courage of one person to give others confidence they will be believed.

“That so many have now reported their own sufferings is testament to my client’s courage and the campaign of this newspaper. This has ensured the full story of what happened at this school will be disclosed.”

Durham police added: “We would encourage victims to come forward and would also like to hear from anyone who may have relevant information about the behaviour of John Grove.”

Former PM Tony Blair attended the school from 1961 to 1966. Actor Rowan Atkinson was there at the same time.

There is no suggestion either man was abused during their time there.