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Investigation into claims of abuse at boys' home in Bedfordshire

A major review's been launched into claims of physical, sexual and emotional abuse at the St Francis Boys' Home in Bedfordshire.

The allegations span three decades dating back 70 years.

All victims and witnesses will be interviewed as part of the review by Bedfordshire Police.

Officers say their review will ensure all the allegations are investigated in line with modern police guidance.

"The investigation has evolved due to the large number of victims and witnesses. We are now in a very different era and social attitudes and the criminal justice has changed significantly in the last 50 years. I aim to provide all of the victims involved with an outcome. Investigating abuse of any kind will always involve issues of a sensitive nature, victims will be kept fully informed of any progress in relation to their case and given the support required. Many of the suspects have since died but police forces still have the responsibility to investigate these crimes and consider organisational responsibility at the time of the abuse."

– Mark Ross, Bedfordshire Police

Detectives are appealing for anyone who believes they may have been a victim or witness to contact them on 01582 473395 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.