More than 200 football clubs have been named and 500 potential victims identified in police’s nationwide probe into child sex abuse in the game.

Statistics released today (Wednesday, January 18) by Operation Hydrant, the body set up to investigate historic abuse claims, showed officers had received 1,016 reports of abuse.

In total, 248 clubs have been referenced in information submitted to the investigation and police now believe as many as 526 victims may have been affected.

The youngest potential victims at the time of the abuse may have been just 4, while the oldest was 20.

Clubs under investigation range from Premier League teams through to sides in the amateur ranks.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for child protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said: “Operation Hydrant is beginning to see a decrease in the number of referrals being received relating to allegations of abuse within football, and other sports.

“Allegations of non-recent child sexual abuse are complex, and often require specialist skills and knowledge, and can take time to progress.

“However, all allegations and information received by police forces across the country are being acted upon.

“We will listen and treat all reports sensitively and seriously. Anyone with any information regarding child sexual abuse is also urged to come forward.

“When allegations are reported it enables police to assess whether there are current safeguarding risks and ensure that appropriate action is being taken to prevent children being abused today.”

The Met is investigating historic child sex abuse at 32 clubs across London.

A number of allegations have been raised in recent weeks against former Leyton Orient coach Eddie Heath, who died in the mid-1980s.

Last month, former Leyton Orient youth player Peter Hodges exclusively told the Guardian Series Heath tried to groom him in the early 1960s.

Jimmy Scott, an O’s captain when Heath worked at Brisbane Road, has also claimed the coach was a known child abuser during his time at the club.

Former Chelsea striker Gary Johnson alleged last week he was sexually assaulted by Heath, who worked as a scout for the west London side, in the 1970s.

Police are asking anyone who has been a victim of child sex abuse in football to contact their local police on 101, or call the dedicated NSPCC helpline: 0800 023 2642.