AN Anglican bishop has categorically denied that any decision has been made about the future of a controversial priest, despite reports he faces being defrocked if he doesn't resign.

It is alleged that the Dean of Ripon's management style has split the city's cathedral down the middle.

Three senior members of staff have already quit, claiming they found the Very Reverend John Methuen difficult to work for, while some members of the congregation are known to resent his decision to allow the cathedral to be associated with a locally-brewed ale and to take part in annual pancake races.

The dean's work with the Ripon Partnership and his close involvement in local affairs have won him just as many friends. But some reports over the weekend suggested, in the wake of an inquisition last year, a decision had been reached on Dean Methuen's future and he was to be told to quit or face a Consistory Court, which would try him for conduct unbecoming a clerk in holy orders.

Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, the Right Reverend John Packer, is considering the findings of last year's inquiry and the contents of letters sent by 150 people who responded to an open invitation to write down their thoughts on the Dean's tenure at Ripon Cathedral.

However, yesterday, he emphasised no decision had been made about Dean Methuen's position.

"Continuing meetings are taking place in order in order to resolve the situation at Ripon Cathedral but no ultimatum has been presented to anyone,'' he said.

"There is no fixed time scale; as bishop, I am still taking legal advice.

"No decisions concerning future action have yet been taken. I would continue to ask people to hold the cathedral in their prayers.''