Former Ipswich Town footballer Lee Chapman is reportedly among an increasing number of public figures to become embroiled in an alleged phone hacking scandal.

It has been reported that Chapman and actress wife Leslie Ash are preparing to take legal action in relation to phone hacking claims linked to the News of the World.

Today, senior detectives said they would will leave “no stone unturned” in their inquiry into the allegations.

Acting Commissioner Tim Godwin launched a vigorous defence of how his force has handled a steady stream of new claims linked to the newspaper.

Speaking at a meeting of the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA), he said investigators must now be left to follow the new evidence wherever it may lead.

Describing the new inquiry, Mr Godwin said: “It will be very robust and it will be under scrutiny as it should be.

“It will restore confidence in victims who feel they have not been given a service. It will be with no stone unturned. We have some of the most skilled investigators in the country and you will be proud of what they do.”

Chapman joined Ipswich from West Ham for a fee of �70,000 in November 1995. He made 22 appearances for the club and scored just one goal.