Cathedral music boss sacked after 'inappropriate' song row

Bangor Cathedral's music director has been sacked after an "inappropriate" song was sung by the choir during a service.

After a disciplinary process for events on 31 August it was announced on Friday Joe Cooper had been dismissed.

As well as singing the song the choir walked out of the service in protest at potential lay-offs.

Despite his sacking Mr Cooper was thanked for his contribution to the "music and life of the cathedral".

The protest came after it was announced the cathedral was considering laying off two-thirds of its workforce.

Mr Cooper said he was told he was being sacked on Wednesday, calling it "extremely disappointing" both personally and professionally.

"I will be seeking advice and potentially asking for the decision to be reviewed in accordance with my legal rights," he said.

He added there had been an "apparent reluctance" by the cathedral to work with him to find a solution to budgetary problems.

This, he said, "left me with no option but to speak publicly".

Mr Cooper said he disputed the claim that doing so "was detrimental to the cathedral".

"We were able to raise a significant amount of money to allow the cathedral to avoid some of the job losses as a direct consequence of my actions," he said.

There had been, he said, "much hurtful and unfair commentary online about me and the choir".

Mr Cooper said: "I am hopeful that my departure will provide closure to those members of the cathedral community who have awaited it, and that those who feel it is unjust and unfair will find welcome and support wherever they decide to go next."

The cathedral said: "Following a thorough disciplinary process, including investigation into serious breaches of confidentiality and data protection obligations during the redundancy process, as well as actions during the service of worship on August 31st, it has taken the decision to dismiss Joe Cooper from his role as director of music with immediate effect.

"The chapter recognises Joe's significant contribution to the music and life of the cathedral, especially in the creation and performance of choral works in the Welsh language, and in the high musical standards achieved by the choir during his tenure."