We honour the courage of the victims and survivors who have come forward to support the prosecution of Timothy Biles, who has been sentenced to a total of six years in prison for five counts of indecent assault. The abuse was committed several decades ago while he was a member of staff and school chaplain at the independent St Francis school in Hooke near Beaminster, which is now closed.

We were horrified to hear of the offences he committed. As soon as the police made the diocese aware of the case in 2022 his Permission To Officiate as a priest was removed and we have provided every assistance to the police with their enquiries. With regard to additional honours awarded, we are now taking all available steps to remove these in light of his conviction.

Our prayers are for the victims and survivors in this case, and all those affected by it. We urge anyone with a concern regarding abuse whether current or in the past, no matter how long ago, to contact the police. Advice and support can also be obtained from the independent charity Safe Spaces or the diocesan safeguarding team.

A personal statement from the Bishop of Salisbury, Rt Revd Stephen Lake:

“The appalling abuse committed by Timothy Biles while at the now closed St Francis School in Hooke has rightly resulted in a significant custodial sentence today. I have taken immediate action to remove the award of Canon Emeritus, which was given by a predecessor in 2000. We are also taking the necessary steps to recommend that his MBE is removed, though that is a decision for the honours Forfeiture Committee, not the diocese or myself.

“I want to thank the victims and survivors for their bravery in coming forward. I hope and pray the verdict and today’s sentence offers an opportunity to begin to heal from the trauma they have suffered.”