Savile probe police told of 31 rapes among 450 complaints

Some 589 people have come forward with information relating to the scandal, with a total of 450 complaints against the BBC presenter and DJ, mainly alleging sexual abuse.

In the 10 weeks since the launch of Operation Yewtree, Scotland Yard say they have recorded 199 crimes in 17 force areas in which Savile is a suspect.

The 31 allegations of rape cover seven force areas.

So far detectives have detained seven suspects and helped in the arrest of three others elsewhere in the country, Scotland Yard said, adding: “More arrests nationally will be forthcoming.”

Former pop star Gary Glitter and a man in his 70s, reported to be former television producer Wilfred De’Ath were re-bailed by police yesterday.

Other high-profile individuals questioned include publicist Max Clifford, comedian Freddie Starr and DJ Dave Lee Travis.

Officers are looking at three strands within their inquiry: claims against Savile, those against Savile and others, and those against others, with the yesterday’s update covering the first of those strands.

Scotland Yard said the majority of work relating to Savile acting alone has now been completed, although more victims could come forward.

Police and the NSPCC are compiling a report which it is hoped will be published in the new year, to provide an overview of the late star’s activities.

Analysis so far showed 82 per cent of those reporting abuse were female, and 80 per cent
were children or young people.