Fourteen suspects have been questioned as part of a fresh investigation into alleged child abuse at a ­residential school where Sir Cyril Smith is accused of targeting young boys.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that the men, aged between 35 and 66, were interviewed under caution over a range of allegations including physical and sexual abuse at Knowl View School in Rochdale between 1969 and 1990.

The claims relate to alleged abuse of pupils by adults at the residential school and among the boys themselves.

Eighteen more victims have come forward.

Detective Chief Superintendent Russ Jackson said: "These are serious allegations made against both staff and pupils at the school and are being thoroughly investigated.

"We are working through the allegations and as a result 14 people so far have been interviewed under caution."

Earlier this month an ­independent review of a possible cover-up of abuse at the care home was halted after GMP Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy said a "wider investigation" was needed.

The Home Office is deciding who should lead the possible criminal investigation.

Rochdale Labour MP Simon Danczuk claimed in a book that Smith raped a number of boys at the school.