A former bishop of the Isle of Man has resigned from his position as Dean of St Paul's Cathedral in London.

The Right Reverend Graeme Knowles said there were 'some insurmountable issues' in relation to the anti-capitalist demonstrations which have been taking place outside the famous building.

Mr Knowles, who was the Island's bishop for four years up to 2007, has faced strong criticism for his handling of the situation, particularly the decision to close St Paul's to the public for the first time since the blitz during World War II.

He said today that, as criticism increased, his position as Dean 'was becoming untenable'.

A statement, read on his behalf at a media briefing this afternoon, added: 'I hope and pray that under new leadership these issues might continue to be addressed and that there might be a swift and peaceful resolution'.

Legal proceedings have begun to remove the hundreds of people camped around the cathedral.