Tribunal to decide on church row

Some parishioners have concerns over the running of the church

A long-running row between a vicar and his parishioners is under scrutiny by a Church of England tribunal.

Parishioners at St Mary and St Michael Parish Church in Trumpington, Cambs, claim pastoral relations with vicar Rev Dr Tom Ambrose have broken down.

A spokesman for the Diocese of Ely said senior clergy and lay members were trying to resolve matters of dispute.

These include plans to build toilets in the church, and removal of pews to allow people to chat after services.

"How you solve a problem like that when the row has been going on for years - that is the question," said the Dicoese spokesman.

"The dispute has been going on for some years and the tribunal is attempting to bring about a solution."

The tribunal is taking place over five days in St Mary-le-Bow Church in the City of London.