Rolf Harris charged with seven more counts of indecently assaulting victims as young as 12

The allegations relate to seven girls and women, and date back to 1971

(Rex)

Rolf Harris is to be charged with seven counts of indecent assault after new evidence was gathered in the continuing police investigation into historic sex abuse.

The allegations date back to 1971 and relate to seven girls and women aged between 12 and 27.

“We have carefully considered the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan Police Service as part of Operation Yewtree in relation to Rolf Harris,” a spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service said.

“Having completed our review in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, we have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest for Mr Harris to be charged with seven counts of indecent assault.

“The alleged offences date from 1971 to 2004 and relate to seven complainants aged between 12 and 27 at the time of the alleged offending.”

Harris will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 17 March.

Operation Yewtree was set up in the wake of Jimmy Savile’s death and revelations over his sexual abuse of children to investigate offences by high-profile figures.