Back in Britain: Strained Sir Cliff Richard returns home on budget airline with sister
SIR Cliff Richard, who is currently still facing claims of historic sex abuse, was pictured arriving in London earlier this week alongside his sister.
Sir Cliff is now back in the UK for an alleged family visit
The 74-year-old was spotted by fellow flyers taking a budget airline Ryanair flight from Portugal to Stansted.
After a seven-hour delay at Faro airport, Sir Cliff was looking far from happy as he touched down on UK soil, alongside his sister Joan Pilgrim.
His visit is thought to be in order to see family and not because of the police inquiry regarding historial claims of sexually assaulting three alleged victims, including a teenage boy at a religious rally 30 years ago.
Despite going through an incredibly tough time over the past year, with images from the police swoop that took place in his house being broadcast live around the world by the BBC last August, the singer has always had the support of his sister Joan.
Joan, who is the youngest of his three sisters and lives with him at his Portugese home, was pictured by his side as they strolled through the airport.
Singer looks worn out as he lands in London
Sir Cliff strolls through Stansted with sister Joan
Pair wait for a taxi after jetting in from Portugal
A source said of the pair's relationship: “Cliff calls Joan his rock. He has increasingly turned to her over the past few months.
“She has been a tower of strength and support for him during the dark days he has faced. She is always there for him.”
Sir Cliff is now desperate to clear his name before his 75th anniversary tour, with him speaking out in a public statement three months ago to have his say.
According to his good friend Cilla Black, the crooner has also put the £3 million Berkshire property that was raided up for sale.
She said: "Cliff told me he's just put the flat on the market.
"It's the saddest thing for him, but he had to do it. He said he never wants to live there again."
Legendary singer's home was raided by police last year
Joan has been her brother's 'rock' throughout the whole ordeal
Sir Cliff jetted in on a budget airline
Cilla continued: "He doesn't want to go back there because he's worried this is still hanging over him.
"When the police raided it was invasion of his privacy. I can't even advise him because - my God - though I've been through a lot, this is outside my experience.
"He will never, ever go back there again. I don't blame him."
Sir Cliff previously said of the allegations: “I have no idea where these absurd and untrue allegations come from. The police have not disclosed details to me.
"I have never, in my life, assaulted anyone. I have co-operated fully with the police, and will continue to do so.”
Joan Pilgrim lives with Cliff in Portugal
Star's Berkshire home was investigated by police