Shamed rock star ‘house-hunting in Saddleworth’

CONVICTED paedophile Gary Glitter is house-hunting in Saddleworth for a secluded property worth up to £900,000.

But the shamed rock idol has already been refused accommodation at Clough Manor Hotel in Denshaw as a base for his search next week.

Glitter (65), real name Paul Gadd, tried to make the booking on Wednesday afternoon but owner Alan Tupman refused point blank.

Mr Tupman said: “That would be repulsive. He is simply unacceptable.”

A member of staff took the call from Glitter’s agent in London and rang back to verify it really was the child abuser who wanted to stay.

When it was confirmed that it was Glitter, concerned staff contacted Mr Tupman.

He added: “We refused him. It was his booking agent, I believe. Why would he tell you? Obviously they know there is going to be a problem.

“We believe he is looking for a property in the area next Monday or Tuesday.

“I want to alert people. It is not just Clough Manor, it is the area generally, and I would question the motive. Why is he coming here?

“I am quite a philosophical person, and do believe when people have been punished for a crime, that is finished, but what he has done is unacceptable. I feel revulsion.”

Glitter was jailed for four years at Bristol Crown Court in 1999 after admitting to having a computer collection of 4,000 hardcore photographs of children being abused.

He was convicted again in Vietnam in 2006 for molesting two local girls aged 11 and 12, and served 27 months in prison.

He is reported to have searched for hideaways in the south-east of England, but settled in central London, protecting his address and driving a car with heavily tinted windows.

Saddleworth estate agent Gwyn Jones, currently in Florida, said: “I can confirm my company has been approached by representatives we are led to believe act for Gary Glitter.”

Speaking exclusively to the Chronicle, he said: “The approach was made in my absence to one of my team who contacted me on Wednesday. I have not yet personally spoken to his agents or him.

“I believe he is planning to fly to Saddleworth by helicopter next week but I do not know any more about his plans.

“I have to look after the interests of my clients first and foremost. They would have to understand that the prospective purchaser would be Gary Glitter and it would be their decision if they wished him to view their property.

“I have to be seen to be acting responsibly and looking after their best interests. We have to act in guide lines.”

He added: “I cannot say any more other than I am told the client is looking for a secluded property up to the £900,000 mark.”