Twelve new victims of child sexual exploitation in Rotherham have come forward since the publication last week of a report into the scandal by the former chief social work adviser to the Scottish Government.

At least 1,400 young people were abused, often by gangs of Asian men, in the town, according to the inquiry by Professor Alexis Jay.

South Yorkshire Police announced yesterday it is to launch an independent investigation into its handling of the claims after Prof Jay found complaints from victims were often dismisssed by the authorities.

There are 62 officers dedicated to dealing with child sex abuse in the force area, compared to just three in 2010 and eight in 2012.

Chief Constable David Crompton said 104 convictions had been secured since the start of 2013, while 40 suspects were on bail and there are also "multiple victim, multiple offender" investigations under way, including two in Rotherham.

Home Secretary Theresa May yesterday met Prof Jay after promising MPs she would act to bring perpetrators to justice and prevent the scandal being repeated.

An independent investigation into Rotherham Borough Council is under consideration.