More sexual abuse allegations against ex-Premier League physio from village near Tring

Sixteen more alleged sexual abuse victims have made reports against a former Watford FC physio from near Tring who died while on police bail.

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Phil Edwards, 60, was arrested on suspicion of abusing a teenager in May last year.

Edwards was freed on bail but a fortnight later was found dead at his home in Wilstone.

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Hertfordshire Police has since been contacted by 16 people who have made complaints about Mr Edwards, The Athletic has reported.

Vicarage Road (Credit: Getty Images)Vicarage Road (Credit: Getty Images)
Vicarage Road (Credit: Getty Images)

The force said it is "unable to investigate further" due to his death.

Mr Edwards was a key member of the backroom staff at Watford FC in the 1990s before he left in 1998.

A spokesman for Hertfordshire Police said: "After exploring any available lines of inquiry, the investigation has now been brought to a close.

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"As the man is now deceased, we are unable to investigate further.

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Police

"A further 16 reports have since been made to police against the man. These have been recorded and advice given to complainants."

The force said it will "review further" if any other reports are made.

Watford FC said it was committed to providing support and guidance to any possible victims.

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A spokesman said: "We understand there will be levels of concern at the accusations of historic abuse during a period in the 1990s and the club is determined to discover the veracity of these allegations and how they may have impacted on those who came in contact with Mr Edwards via Watford FC."