Bishop of Gloucester stands down with immediate effect

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-gloucestershire-28620434

Version 0 of 1.

The Bishop of Gloucester has stood down with immediate effect "for personal reasons".

The Right Reverend Michael Perham was due to retire in November after almost a decade in the role.

In a statement, The Diocese of Gloucester confirmed Bishop Michael had "stepped back" from his ministry.

He had announced his retirement last November, saying the "time was right for him and his family".

A special service was due to take place on 8 November to celebrate his time as Bishop of Gloucester.

Church officials said they "did not know" whether this was still going ahead or not.