Clergy offered net safety courses

Attacks on the clergy are a growing problem

Violent attacks on clergymen and women are reaching such a level that personal safety courses are being offered on the internet.

The main advice from National Churchwatch is to avoid angry confrontations before they escalate into violence.

Former policeman Nick Tolson, a safety expert from Shepton Mallet, says such attacks are a growing problem and need to be addressed.

"The clergy is one of the highest risk jobs in the UK. A recent survey showed that 12 percent are assaulted each year and suffer physical injury," he told the BBC

"Clergy are seen as the last chance by people, who are truly desperate. When the clergy can't help, people can get violent.

"The internet course starts with looking at violence and confrontation, both violent and non-violent. We don't do self-defence, but we do show tricks to prevent injury," he added.

Mr Tolson started the training courses for vicars four years ago, in which time he has had over 300 subscriptions.