Jimmy Savile inquiry extends to 41 hospitals

The number of hospitals investigating allegations of sexual abuse by Jimmy Savile has been extended to 41, British health secretary Jeremy Hunt has said.

A further nine hospitals or ambulance services – including the former psychiatric hospital Bethlem Royal hospital in London – have launched investigations since June.

The fresh allegations came to light after the publication of inquiries at 28 NHS trusts, which found widespread abuse by Savile against victims aged from five to 75.

The findings prompted the department of health to apologise for the “wholly inadequate procedures” that allowed the former BBC DJ to carry out the abuse while holding positions of authority at NHS institutions.

Since June, allegations have come to light involving nine hospitals or ambulance services: Birch Hill and Scott House hospitals in Rochdale, Bethlem Royal and Shenley hospitals in London, West Yorkshire Ambulance Service, St Martin's hospital in Canterbury, Queen Elizabeth hospital in Gateshead, Meanwood Park hospital near Leeds and Calderdale Royal hospital. – (Guardian service)