Criminal investigation following Savile abuse claims

Since the ITV documentary was aired police say they have 400 lines of enquiry relating to claims of child sexual exploitation

Police looking into claims of child sexual exploitation by the late Jimmy Savile and others, have now launched a formal criminal investigation.

Operation Yewtree has so far gathered more than 400 line sof enquiry and over 200 potential victims have been identified.

Though there will be no police investigation into Jimmy Savile, it has emerged that there are living people that require formal investigation as a result of the inquiry so far.

The NSPCC said it is possible the former Top of the Pops presenter was "one of the most prolific sex offenders" the charity has ever come across. Claims have also emerged about fellow entertainers Freddie Starr, who has staunchly refuted the allegations, as well as Gary Glitter - real name Paul Gadd.

As well as police investigations, inquiries are taking place into his involvement with Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Broadmoor and Leeds General Infirmary.

Dame Janet Smith, who headed the Shipman Inquiry, has been appointed to head an inquiry into Savile's time at the BBC and Scotland Yard said they recognised "her need to progress this important work".

It has also emerged that the BBC is aiming to rush a special edition of Panorama into its schedules looking into issues surrounding Jimmy Savile's years of abuse, which could be run on Monday.