A NEW appeal for information from the public over alleged sexual abuse by the former Mayor of Scarborough has been issued by North Yorkshire Police.

Information on the late Peter Jaconelli, a businessman in the town, is being collected by the force as part of an ongoing investigation into historic sexual abuse.

Police have urged any victims or anyone with knowledge about the allegations to come forward, following last week's announcement the force had referred itself to the Independent Police Complaints Commission over the way it handled earlier allegations about Mr Jaconelli and his friend Jimmy Savile.

A police spokesman said: “Anyone who believes they have been a victim of Peter Jaconelli, or has relevant information and who has not recently contacted North Yorkshire Police, are asked to do so as soon as possible.

“It is important that victims are able to access the specialist support services that are readily available, and that we gather all the evidence in respect of this matter. “

Victims and people with information should phone North Yorkshire Police 101, email MajorCrimeUnit@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk using the title “Operation Hibiscus”, or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.