Prosecution against Lib Dem candidate is dropped

A Shropshire Lib Dem candidate who was forced to withdraw from the General Election battle after a police probe into allegations of sex abuse will not face any charges, it was confirmed today.

West Mercia Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said there was "insufficient evidence" to charge 71-year-old David Murray with any criminal offences.

Mr Murray, of Ashgrove, Albrighton, near Shifnal, withdrew as the Lib Dem candidate for The Wrekin in this year's General Election on advice from party bosses.

Mr Murray, who always maintained his innocence, said today: "I am very relieved.

"These were malicious allegations designed to discredit me in the run-up to the General Election and I am pleased they have proved unfounded.

"I have been amazed and touched by the support I have received from friends and colleagues throughout and I am very grateful for it."

Connected

Mr Murray is also a member of Shifnal Town Council as well as with Boscobel, Boningale and Tong parish councils.

Mr Max Bennett, district crown prosecutor for Shropshire CPS, said: "After a detailed investigation by the police a file was submitted to our offices so that we could consider whether any criminal offences may have been committed by Mr Murray.

"The file was reviewed by one of my crown advocates, who came to the conclusion that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute Mr Murray for any criminal offences connected with this investigation.

"I fully support and agree with this conclusion, and the advice given to the police is that there should be no further action in this matter."

Mr Murray moved to the West Midlands to work for GKN in 1986 and was first elected to public office in 1970. He was a Bridgnorth district councillor from 2003-09. He was replaced in the election by Alyson Cameron-Daw, who lost out as Tory Mark Pritchard retained The Wrekin seat.

By Wayne Beese