A Church of England vicar in the Island is facing a series of criminal charges.

The charges are the result of a long-running investigation into Canon David Green, the vicar of Maughold parish.

It's understood the 56 year-old has been charged with multiple counts of theft.

A short statement's been released from the Bishop, saying his office will co-operate fully with the authorities.

Marian Kenny reports (audio file attached):

The Reverend Canon David Green was suspended from duties by the Bishop in May last year, after it emerged detectives were investigating alleged financial irregularities.

That investigation centred on the Maughold Burial Authority, which looks after the parish churchyard.

Canon Green subsequently suffered a heart attack and became seriously ill, the reason the investigation has been prolonged.

Details relating to the theft charges have not been released by police.

In his statement, the Bishop confirmed Canon Green was suspended as soon as he was made aware of the outcome of the initial police investigation. He says there'll be no further comment until the situation is resolved.

And he's asked for prayer for all involved in the case, the people of Maughold, and Canon Green and his family.