AN inquiry that will determine the future of Minehead's vicar - the Rev Simon Lloyd - has yet to be concluded, church officials confirmed yesterday (Thursday).

The Free Press exclusively revealed last week that Mr Lloyd had been suspended following allegations that he had an improper relationship with a woman parishioner.

The married father of one is prevented from taking services or carrying out any pastoral duties until an investigation by the Archdeacon of Taunton, the Venerable John Reed, has been completed.

Prebendary John Andrews, communications officer for the Bath and Wells Diocese, told the Free Press yesterday (Thursday) that the inquiry was still underway.

"It won't be protracted but these things can't be rushed," he said.

If Mr Reed finds the allegations are unsubstantiated, Mr Lloyd is expected to be reinstated.

But if he finds there is a case to answer, the matter will go to Clergy Disciplinary Measure, which would involve the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Right Rev Peter Price.