Chetham's School of Music: More sex abuse claims

Frances Andrade is believed to have killed herself after she gave evidence during the trial

Police are to investigate new allegations of sexual abuse by another former teacher at Chetham's School of Music in Manchester.

The Guardian newspaper says ten women have come forward claiming they were assaulted by another member of staff who taught at the school in the 1980s.

Ex-choir director Michael Brewer and his ex-wife Kay were found guilty of indecently assaulting Frances Andrade.

Police have confirmed it will interview former pupils over the claims.

Ch Supt Russ Jackson said: "Greater Manchester Police has been provided with a list of potential victims from a newspaper.

'Incredibly difficult'

"In addition to this several people have also come forward directly to police.

"Reporting sexual abuse which occurred some time ago is an incredibly difficult thing to do, so we will be affording them, and anyone else who comes forward, all the appropriate time and support to discuss events in their own time.

"We will be working very closely with the school in the coming weeks and months but I must stress this investigation is at a very early stage."

Brewer, of Selly Oak, Birmingham, was convicted of carrying out the sexual abuse in his office at Chetham's School of Music between 1978 and 1982.

Hilary Brewer, also known by her middle name Kay, and of Knowl Gap Avenue, Haslingden, was convicted of indecently assaulting the same victim when she was an adult at their then family home. She was cleared of aiding and abetting rape.

The jury cleared Brewer of rape and one charge of indecently assaulting the victim as a child in his home.

They had both denied all charges.

Mrs Andrade, 48, is believed to have killed herself after appearing at the trial.