BBC correspondent Mike Mckay says the investigation snowballed from one complaint

The alleged offences are claimed to have taken place at the home, formerly based in the old Bishop's Palace, Spring Hill, near Ripon, North Yorkshire, between the late sixties and the mid-seventies.

The arrest in the West Midlands of a 51-year-old man from Worcester follows a secret inquiry which began last August after a complaint was made to police.

BBC correspondents say Operation Pudsey, as it is known, is the biggest inquiry into allegations of child abuse ever conducted by North Yorkshire officers.

Det Insp Metcalfe: appeal for witnesses

In the course of the investigation, officers traced 60 former residents of the home, which was transferred some years ago to purpose built premises near old Bishop's Palace.

Allegations have been made about 10 carers and detectives expect to make more arrests in the next fortnight.

Police say none of the suspects are now working in children's homes.

Det Insp Phil Metcalfe says the home's current staff are in the clear

Detective Inspector Phil Metcalfe said: "We are continuing our inquiries and it is vital we hear from people who lived at the Spring Hill school in order to substantiate these allegations."