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Police identify 155 potential suspects in football child sexual abuse probe

The number of potential suspects in the child sexual abuse in football investigation has risen to 155, according to the National Police Chiefs' Council.

The number of potential suspects in the child sexual abuse in football investigation has risen to 155, up from 83 at the start of December, according to the National Police Chiefs' Council.

Police forces up and down the country have been investigating numerous allegations after Andy Woodward's public revelation that he was sexually abused by ex-Crewe Alexandra coach Barry Bennell as a young footballer encouraged others to come forward.

New figures on Operation Hydrant also show that the number of potential victims stands at 429, with some 819 referrals made from police forces and from the NSPCC helpline so far - up from 639 at the start of December.

The investigation, which has rocked the English game, shows that 148 football clubs have been 'impacted' by the allegations.

National Police Chiefs' Council lead for Child Protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said: "Allegations received by police forces across the country are being swiftly acted upon.

"We continue to urge anyone who may have been a victim of child sexual abuse to report it by dialling 101, or contacting the dedicated NSPCC helpline, regardless of how long ago the abuse may have taken place."

Steve Walters, David White and Paul Stewart are among the ex-footballers who have waived their right to anonymity to discuss the alleged abuse that they suffered as children.

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