A former Church of England minister who served at St Lawrence's Church in Abbots Langley has been barred from ministry for four years following allegations of inappropriate conduct.

Rev Brian Jeffery Hibberd, who occasionally led services at the church, was found to have engaged in "conduct unbecoming and inappropriate to the office and work of a clerk in Holy Orders," according to a disciplinary report published by the Church of England.

The disciplinary panel imposed a four-year prohibition, effective from 23rd June 2024, barring him from performing any church duties during this period.

A spokesperson for the Diocese of St Albans told the Watford Observer: "We deeply regret any harm caused by such misconduct and have sincerely apologised, offering ongoing support to those affected."

Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings under the Clergy Discipline Measure, the Diocese declined to comment on specific allegations.

The current vicar of St Lawrence’s, Reverend Peter Waddell, expressed his sorrow over the situation, stating: "I’m truly sorry for the harm done by Rev Hibberd’s actions and would like to reiterate the public apology made by the Bishop of Hertford at the conclusion of the church investigation last year."

Reverend Hibberd has been contacted for comment regarding the disciplinary actions taken against him.