A CHURCH source has confirmed things will go on as normal after the disappearance of its rector.

Helen Comber, church warden of All Saints' Church, Snodland, near Rochester, has confirmed that services will go ahead after Canon Jim Tipp failed to show up on Sunday.

The Rev Elaine Northern, the associate rector, has also disappeared, fuelling speculation in the town.

On Sunday the congregation of All Saints' was told Mr Tipp was unavailable to deliver the sermon. Instead it was delivered by the Archdeacon Peter Lock.

Mrs Comber has confirmed on Wednesday that both Mr Tipp and Mrs Northern had left. She declined to make further comment.

The Diocese of Rochester issued a statement saying: "The Church of England expects the highest standards of all those involved in its ministry.

Canon Jim Tipp and the Rev Elaine Northern will not be undertaking any duties in the parish and the Bishop of Rochester will consider their positions. You will appreciate that, for legal reasons, it is not possible to make any further comment at the moment. We do, however, ask for your prayers for all parties involved."

One local resident said: "There are a lot of shocked people in Snodland. It is thought that they have left the church and left the town. I don't think they are going to be anywhere near Snodland. I think a lot of people will be taking this quite seriously."

Anne Moloney, vice chairman of Snodland Town Council, declined to comment saying: "This is a private matter and not part of town council business."

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