ST Andrew's Parish Church faces Christmas without the rector of Farnham at the helm while alleged financial irregularities at his previous parishes in Yorkshire are investigated.

The Reverend Stuart Reynolds, who was inducted at St Andrew's on March 4 by the Bishop of Guildford, has stepped back voluntarily from his responsibilities during the investigation, the congregation were informed in the parish newsletter.

According to the newsletter, the church's wardens and PCC have been confidentially briefed by the Archdeacon of Surrey.

For full story, see this week's Farnham Herald.