Police say they have been contacted by “a number of people” with information following the widespread media coverage of a search of Sir Cliff Richard’s home.

The singer’s Berkshire penthouse was scoured for five hours yesterday by officers from South Yorkshire and Thames Valley Police as part of an investigation into an alleged sexual assault on a young boy at a religious event in 1985.

Officers from South Yorkshire and other police forces have received calls with information but it is not yet clear whether any more alleged victims are among those who have made contact.

Sir Cliff, who was in Portugal when the search took place, firmly denied any wrongdoing.

“Since the search took place a number of people have contacted the police to provide information and we must acknowledge that the media played a part in that, for which we are grateful,” the force said in a statement.

The investigation is focused on an alleged assault claimed to have taken place on a boy under 16 at an appearance by American evangelist Billy Graham in Sheffield in 1985.

Officers took a number of items from the property for further investigation after yesterday’s search.

In a statement, Sir Cliff said: “For many months I have been aware of allegations against me of historic impropriety which have been circulating online.

“The allegations are completely false. Up until now I have chosen not to dignify the false allegations with a response, as it would just give them more oxygen.”