Kelly cleared of sex abuse claims but cautioned over drugs

TELEVISION presenter Matthew Kelly was yesterday cleared over allegations of sex abuse against young boys.

But Mr Kelly was cautioned after detectives found a small quantity of Class A drugs during a search of his London home.

The 52-year-old, from Chiswick, west London, was arrested last month by officers from Surrey Police investigating claims of abuse dating back to the 1970s.

Speaking outside Staines police station in Middlesex, Mr Kelly said: "After an extensive and thorough police investigation, which included inquiries abroad, it is clear there is no truth in the single allegation that was made against me. I strenuously denied the allegation when interviewed by the police and have given them all possible assistance with the investigation they were under a duty to carry out.

"I was always confident my name would be cleared in due course.

"However, it's been a very anxious and upsetting time for me and my family not least because of press coverage at the time of my arrest."

Mr Kelly said the quantity of drugs, which were not identified, was small and for his own personal use.

"I recognise the use of such drugs is both illegal and foolish. I want to apologise to my family and members of the public who may feel let down."

Granada which makes Kelly's show Stars In Their Eyes and ITV said they looked forward to his return. He stood aside for three celebrity specials which were presented by Davina McCall while the investigation was being dealt with.