Police interview Catholic priest over sex abuse allegations

 

A Catholic priest has been interviewed under caution by police investigating historic allegations that he sexually abused three schoolgirls.

Canon Mortimer Stanley, 82, is accused of abusing the women while they were still under the age of 11, during their time at St Vincent's Primary School in Norden, Rochdale, between 1980 and 2000.

It is understood the allegations involve a parish priest at St Vincent de Paul RC Church who was serving at the time of the alleged offences. The church is located in the same grounds as the school.

Police said the offences did not occur within the school but at an adjacent presbytery.

Detective Constable Christian Chivers, from Greater Manchester Police, appealed to former pupils to come forward with information.

He said: "I want to reassure local residents, and more importantly parents of children currently at St Vincent's, that these are historical incidents.

"While we do not believe there is any reason for current pupils or their families to be unduly concerned, this is extremely serious and upsetting for the victims in this case, who we are continuing to provide specialist support to.

In a statement, the Salford Diocese said it was aware of the investigation and would co-operate fully with police and the relevant authorities.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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