UK: Three boarding schools investigated after more than 80 former pupils claimed they were subjected to 'horrific' regime

The investigation involves pupils who attended Badgeworth Court, in Cheltenham.
The school closed in the 1980s

More than 80 potential victims have been interviewed in connection with allegations of abuse at three former boys' boarding schools.

Police are investigating allegations of physical and sexual abuse at two boarding schools in Gloucestershire and one in Wiltshire used by social services in the 1970s and 1980s.

The investigation involves pupils who attended Badgeworth Court and Dowdeswell Court, near Cheltenham, along with Clouds House, in Wiltshire, who claim they suffered 'horrific' abuse while at school during the period.

The schools closed in the late 1980s.

Police say they hope to bring the case to the Crown Prosecution Service early next year.

Staff who worked at the schools during the period under investigation have 'categorically denied' any involvement in abuse.

In 2000 the former owner of the schools, Anthony Hurley, appeared in court on allegations of cruelty and sexual abuse of children, but was deemed unfit to stand trial.

He died in 2003.

Former pupils at the school claim the headteacher oversaw a regime of terror and beatings, the BBC reports.   (more...)

UK: Three boarding schools investigated after more than 80 former pupils claimed they were subjected to 'horrific' regime

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