Prayers for politicians row

The rector has called it a 'misunderstanding'

A row has broken out in St Ouen parish after the church urged the congregation to pray for two of the three candidates standing for Deputy.

St Ouen rector John Harkin has apologised after what he says is a "misunderstanding".

The church notices for the parish of St Ouen ask parishioners to pray about the forthcoming elections across the island - and name two candidates for Deputy - Jean Le Maistre and James Reed.

Another candidate, Terence Picot, is not mentioned.

Rector John Harkin says the two candidates were named because they are St Ouen churchgoers.

This Sunday he plans to redress the balance.