RIBBLE Valley MP Nigel Evans has called for an independent inquiry in to the case historic sex abuse claims surrounding Sir Cliff Richard.

It comes after the Crown Prosecution Service said there was 'insufficient evidence to prosecute' Sir Cliff and South Yorkshire Police said it "apologised wholeheartedly" for its 'initial handling of the media interest' in its investigation

The initial raid by South Yorkshire Police detectives on Sir Cliff's home in Berkshire in August 2014 was broadcast on live TV following a controversial agreement between the BBC and the force.

But Sir Cliff was never charged with any crime and Mr Evans criticised the police for 'hanging Sir CLiff out to dry' and also the CPS for prolonging the investigation in the hope that a possible victim would come forward.

And now he has written to Home Secretary Theresa May calling for a full and independent inquiry in to the case.

Mr Evans said: "He was hung out to dry like live bait. That's not how it should be. I have written to the Home Secretary for a full and independent inquiry in to the handling of the case. I want to know why the raid was broadcast on TV and why it has taken the CPS two years to tell him that they would not be proceeding with the case.

"I have been in contact with Sir Cliff over email and he is rightfully angry. I know the agony and stress it has caused him and the way he has been treated is unforgivable."

Last year Mr Evans said that he intended to push for a bill protecting the identity of those arrested or suspected of committing sexual offences until charged.

Mr Evans, who was acquitted of a series of sexual offences charges in 2014, has said that it was one of the main reasons why he did not be seek the nomination for the deputy speakership of the House of Commons.

The MP, who has represented the Ribble Valley since 1992, stood down as deputy speaker to fight the charges which first came to light in 2013.

In a statement South Yorkshire Police said it 'apologised wholeheartedly for the additional anxiety caused by our initial handling of the media interest in this case'.

Martin Goldman, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Yorkshire and Humberside, said: "The CPS has carefully reviewed evidence relating to claims of non-recent sexual offences dating between 1958 and 1983 made by four men.

"We have decided that there is insufficient evidence to prosecute."