LABOUR COUNCILLOR DAVID ROYLE FROM FALLOWFIELD CLEARED OF CHILD SEX ABUSE ALLEGATIONS

In a significant development, police have officially closed their investigation into allegations of child abuse involving Labour Councillor David Royle, who has long represented the Fallowfield area in Manchester. The decision comes after a thorough review of the evidence by the Crown Prosecution Service, which concluded that no further action would be taken against the 49-year-old politician.

The investigation was initially launched last summer when Royle was accused of engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a boy under the age of 16. Following these serious allegations, police arrested Royle in July, leading to his suspension from the Labour Party. Over the subsequent months, he was bailed multiple times as authorities continued their inquiries into the claims.

During this period, Royle was notably absent from council meetings for more than six months. In the lead-up to the local elections in May, he decided to step down from his position as a councillor, allowing another Labour candidate, Zahra Alijah, to be elected in his stead. This move was seen as a way to facilitate a smooth transition amid the ongoing controversy.

On April 19, police officially announced that they would not pursue any charges against Royle after reviewing all available evidence. The police statement clarified that the decision was made following consultations with the Crown Prosecution Service, which determined that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution. The police spokesperson stated, “On Monday 27 July 2015, a 49-year-old man from Fallowfield was arrested on suspicion of sexual activity with a child. He was bailed pending further enquiries and following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, a decision has now been made to take no further action against him. This is in relation to disclosures made to police that a man engaged in sexual activity with a boy under the age of 16.”

Despite the distress caused by the investigation, Royle expressed that he was touched by the support he received from residents of Fallowfield during his campaign efforts. He acknowledged that the process had taken a toll on his mental health but emphasized his intention to return to politics in the near future. He also revealed that he would be taking some time to recover from the intense stress brought on by the allegations.

Royle, who was first elected to the Manchester City Council 16 years ago, has served on various committees, including licensing and community scrutiny. His departure from the council was temporary, and he has now indicated his desire to re-enter the political arena once he has had time to recover. Meanwhile, his seat has been filled by newly elected Labour candidate Zahra Alijah, ensuring continued representation for the Fallowfield community.