Bishop resigns after marriage speculation

9:44am Tuesday 29th April 2008

The Bishop of St Davids has resigned following speculation over the break up of his 25-year marriage.

The church in Wales announced this morning that the Rt. Reverend Carl Cooper's resignation had been accepted.

"He has apologised for any of his actions that have caused offence and made it impossible for him to continue his ministry as Bishop of St Davids," said a church spokesman.

"The Archbishop and the Bench of Bishops of the Church in Wales have accepted the resignation as being in the best interests of the diocese and the Church in Wales at this time."

The Bishop announced his separation from his wife Joy last February stating that there was no one else involved and that the couple remained in an "amicable" relationship.

The clergy was split with some urging an investigation into Bishop Cooper's conduct and others circulating a letter of support.

Rumours and speculation followed, concerning the relationship between Bishop Cooper and his communications officer and chaplain the Reverend Mandy Williams Potter.

Both parties maintained that their relationship was purely professional.

Bishop Carl took leave of absence last month after consultation with the Archbishop of Wales.

Pick up tomorrow's Western Telegraph for more on the story.