A Dean has paid tribute to a departing director of music following an earlier dispute between the pair.

Ripon Cathedral's Dean John Metheun, writing in his July newsletter, says Kerry Beaumont's contribution to the life of the cathedral has been "immense" over the last seven-and-a-half years.

"He has greatly developed our musical life, not only in repertoire but also in quality, and particularly in the formation and development of the girls' choir," says the Dean.

Last November Mr Beaumont threatened to resign over what was described as Dean Metheun's management style at England's oldest cathedral, founded in 672.

But oil was poured on troubled waters when Mr Beaumont announced, amid widespread support, that he would be staying. However, he has now accepted an appointment as Assistant Director of Music at St Catherine's School in Bramley, Surrey, and takes over on September 1.

Mr Beaumont dropped a bombshell when announcing his resignation from the post when it was believed he would be staying. His resignation came as a report into the running of the cathedral is being published by three troubleshooters appointed by the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds the Rt Rev John Packer.

The report followed resignations late last year of cathedral bursar Nigel Clay and chapter clerk Howard Crawshaw.