Criminal pasts uncovered by 'Sarah's Law' scheme

ONE in ten calls to police under a "Sarah's Law" pilot scheme uncovered the hidden criminal past of someone with access to a child, it was revealed.

The largest number of queries came from fathers worried about their ex-partner's new boyfriend.

Ministers confirmed the new disclosure rules will apply to all forces in England and Wales from March next year.

Every one of tens of thousands of registered sex offenders will be contacted to reassure them it will not lead to public vilification.