Tribunal to decide on church row

Some parishioners have concerns over the running of the church

A special church tribunal is to arbitrate after relations between a vicar and some of his parishioners "broke down", the church has said.

The panel of senior clergy will try to solve disputes between the Rev Tom Ambrose, Vicar of Trumpington near Cambridge - and parishioners.

The dispute is believed to relate to changes made in the running of St Mary and St Michael Church in Trumpington.

Some parishioners are said to be unhappy about pews being removed.

The decision was taken so locals could meet for a chat and coffee after services.

'Looking for solutions'

Insiders said there has also been a dispute about the need for a toilet to be installed at the church.

A spokesman for the Diocese of Ely said the tribunal was expected to sit in the autumn.

"The tribunal will be made up of senior clergy and lay members and will probably be chaired by a lawyer," said the spokesman.

"It will consider an alleged breakdown in the working relationship between the vicar and some parishioners.

"It will then make recommendations to try and find solutions to the problem."