‘Operation Meadow’ aims to shed light on reports of abuse against patients at a St Albans hospital between the 1960s and 1990s.

Police are conducting a criminal investigation into allegations of physical and sexual abuse against those who stayed at the Hill End Hospital Adolescent Unit between 1969 and 1995.

Since the investigation was launched in November, 66 people who spent time at the unit have come forward.

Det Chief Insp Jerome Kent said: “Most of these reports relate to allegations regarding the treatment young people received while at the unit.

“We are continuing to speak to and support those who have come forward and are also working with partners within the health service to fully explore these allegations.

“This is an on-going investigation and it would be inappropriate to go into any further details about the nature of the allegations at this stage.

“However, we felt it was important to keep the public updated as much as possible as the Operation Meadow investigation progresses.”

Assistant Chief Constable Bill Jephson added: “We take all reports of sexual and physical abuse seriously regardless of how long ago the offence may have occurred.

“I appreciate that re-visiting non-recent crimes may be a traumatic ordeal for victims but we have officers who are specially trained to deal with these types of crimes while supporting victims through the investigative process.”

Those who believe they have been a victim of this type of abuse can contact the police on the non-emergency number 101, using the online reporting option at https://www.herts.police.uk/opmeadow or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

A central email opmeadow@herts.pnn.police.uk has also been set up to receive any referrals and answer queries. The email address is monitored seven days a week and specialist officers will aim to get in touch within 72 hours of initial contact.