Duncan Edwards also known as Duncan Diggle has been charged with 26 offences – 12 of which are for rape.

As part of a separate investigation into an assault in Colchester in 2014, we received several reports of offences which took place over the last 40 years.

A man was arrested in November 2024 in connection with these offences, questioned by officers and released on bail while their enquiries continued.

Now Duncan Edwards, 62, of Colchester, has been charged with:

• 12 counts of rape

• Six counts of causing actual bodily harm

• Three counts of causing a female over age of 13 to engage in penetrative sexual activity

• One count of procuring sex by threat or intimidation

• One count of voyeurism

• One count of kidnap

• One count of being concerned in the supply of cocaine

• One count of being concerned in the supply of heroin

He was remanded in custody ahead of his appearance at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 31st July.

Detective Inspector Lydia George, Senior Investigating Officer in the case, said: “As we continue to investigate and build the case against this individual, I believe that there may be additional individuals affected.  I would urge anyone with any information to contact us via the Major Incident Public Portal and the investigation team will provide you with any specialist support required."