We know some of the parish will be very angry and upset.

Diocesan spokesman Reverend Richard Pratt

"When I have seen the allegations and seen what people have said, I actually think it is strange."

He also denies the accusations of financial irregularities and says he raised the matter with the diocesan treasurer.

Mr Brown said: "They were purely a mistake. It was I who drew them to the attention of the treasurer and I co-operated with the investigations."

The allegations have split the parish, with some people in the area backing the claims of Mr Brown, who was the parish priest for six years.

'Great shame'

One of his supporters, who did not wish to be named, said: "I think it's a great shame. He was a great pillar of the community and was very much liked."

However Reverend Richard Pratt, spokesman for the diocese, said: "We know some of the parish will be very angry and upset.

"The bishop has received letters of support for Mr Brown valuing aspects of his ministry.

"However, as with any disciplinary procedure, it is not a case of balancing good against bad - if the complaints stand up that is the end of the matter."

Allegations received

A statement from the office of the Bishop of Carlisle, the Reverend Graham Dow, said: "The Bishop received a substantial number of allegations about Mr Brown's conduct.

"The Bishop's legal officer investigated the allegations and Mr Brown and his legal adviser were given an opportunity to respond to them.

"Having given thorough, careful and compassionate attention to the whole matter, the Bishop believes that it is inappropriate for Mr Brown to continue to hold his licence and therefore has revoked it."