PARISHIONERS of a church torn apart by the resignation of its popular choirmaster have returned a vote of no confidence in their parochial church council and wardens.

Stephen Hartley, 62, from York, is applying to be reinstated as choirmaster of St James's Church, Wetherby.

He claims he was forced out because new vicar Philip Evans did not agree with him living out of wedlock with his partner, Joyce.

There have been emotional scenes at the church and Mr Evans has received death threats forcing him to go off sick for more than two months.

Of the 59 per cent of church electors who met last night, 167 voted in favour of the motion expressing no confidence in the PCC and 93 voted against. A total of 152 members voted in favour of the motion of no confidence in the churchwardens and 106 against. A spokesman for the Diocese of Ripon & Leeds said: "The meeting, chaired by the Archdeacon of Richmond, the Ven Ken Good, was conducted in a spirit of civilised debate and a wide spectrum of views were expressed.

"Those speaking for the motion called into question the PCC's leadership,and its alleged failure

to reflect the views of the whole church, while those supporting the PCC and churchwardens spoke of their hard work and diligence in the face of difficulties caused by the campaign against the vicar, Rev Philip Evans. Speakers on both sides commended the Christian commitment of individual PCC members and both churchwardens."

Stephen Hartley said: "I'm very pleased the feelings of the parish are clear for everyone to see and no-one in the PCC can be deluded that it's just a small number of people making a fuss."

Outside the meeting last night, Susan Wilson, a church choir member, said: "I'm relieved at the result. I think the PCC now have to listen to the views of the majority of the congregation. If they respect the wishes of the majority they should resign and resubmit themselves for re-election."

One woman stormed out before the result. She didn't want to be named but said: "I don't think I will be going back to the church. I hope that the healing process now takes place and we can put it all behind us."

The PCC meets tonight to discuss how it will react to the vote.

PICTURE: PLEASED: Stephen Hartley with his partner, Joyce