Emotional Sir Cliff Richard thanks fans for support during sex abuse investigation
An emotional Sir Cliff Richard has thanked fans for standing by him for two years as he was investigated over allegations of historical sexual offences.
The singer said he was "smiling again" at last after he was told that no case would be brought over the allegations.
Sir Cliff, who was never arrested or charged, told ITV News that living with two years under suspicion had been the most difficult time of his life.
Speaking ahead of the Pride of Britain awards, he revealed he still got upset when recalling the details and opened up about the toll the investigation had taken on his life.
Sir Cliff also thanked his fans for standing by him, saying it had made a huge difference to have their support.
"The fans have been sensational," he said.
He appeared to have tears in his eye as he directly addressed all those who had stood by him.
"I can always say that my fans have helped me in a massive way to struggle through what was the most difficult time of my life.
"So I'm here, smiling again, to say thank you all of you, I love you all very dearly."
Sir Cliff was accused by four men of sexual abuse which they alleged had taken place between 1958 and 1983.
In June this year, the Crown Prosecution Service said there was insufficient evidence to bring any prosecution against him.
Sir Cliff has since launched legal actions against both the BBC and South Yorkshire Police after the corporation broadcast footage of officers searching his home during a raid over the allegations in 2014.