Rebelling priests and worshippers have forced one of England s most senior bishops to stand down for several weeks amid threats of a vote of no confidence.
A group of about 30 are understood to be unhappy with the management of Bishop of Winchester, the Right Rev Tim Dakin.
Local reports say he is stepping down for six weeks because of the discontent.
The Rt Rev Deborah Mary Sellin, Suffragan Bishop of Southampton, said in a statement: Bishop Tim has today informed me he will be stepping back from his role as Bishop of Winchester for the next six weeks, so that he can focus on discussions about future leadership and governance reform in the Diocese.