It's a Knockout presenter Stuart Hall charged with indecent assault

  • BBC
Stuart Hall, at his home in Wilmslow, Cheshire Credit: Martin Rickett/PA Wire

The veteran BBC broadcaster Stuart Hall has been charged with three offences of indecent assault against young girls.

The former It's a Knockout presenter is accused of alleged offences committed between 1974 and 1984 involving three girls aged between nine and 16, Lancashire Police said.

Mr Hall, 82, was initially arrested on suspicion of rape and a further allegation of indecent assault, for which he has been released without charge.

A BBC spokesman said that in light of the "very serious nature" of the charges, Mr Hall would not be working at the corporation while police continue their investigation.

Hall was detained at his home in Prestbury Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire at around 8am this morning before being taken to a police station for questioning.

A police officer carrying a plastic bags from the home of Stuart Hall Credit: Dave Thompson/PA Wire

John Dilworth, Head of CPS North West Complex Casework Unit, said:

Former heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali (L) and former world title contender Henry Cooper (R) with Stuart Hall in 1984 Credit: PA/PA Wire

Mr Hall has been a familiar face and voice in British broadcasting for half a century and was this year awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours.

His eccentric and erudite football match summaries have made him a cult figure on BBC Radio 5 Live.

Hall has been bailed to appear before magistrates in Preston on January 7 2013.