Musician Roy Harper (72) facing historic sex offence charges

Veteran folk and rock performer Roy Harper is facing charges in relation to a series of historic sex offences against an under-age girl.

The singer-songwriter, who has performed with Pink Floyd and influenced rock band Led Zeppelin, has been summonsed to appear at Hereford Magistrates' Court on Monday, West Mercia Police said.

The 72-year-old, who lives in Rossmore, Clonakilty, Co Cork, is facing nine sexual offences charges in total.

A force spokesman said: “The summons relates to two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under 13, three counts of indecent assault on a girl under 14 and four counts of gross indecency with a girl under 14.

“The charges are in connection with offences alleged to have taken place in Herefordshire between 1975 and 1977 and relate to one victim.”

The summons was issued to the musician on October 16th, after he was voluntarily interviewed by police at Heathrow Airport on February 22nd.

The prolific performer has produced more than 30 albums during his career, and continues to tour.

PA