TWO Church of England reverends have been suspended from their public duties after their adulterous affair came to light and was reported to a senior member of the clergy.

Reverends Rupert Kalus and Ali Miller, of Lanchester and Burnhope Benefice, in County Durham, have been prohibited from carrying out public duty for 18 and 12 months respectively.

Rev Kalus was serving as vicar while Rev Miller was curate.

News of their suspension was confirmed at All Saints Parish Church in Lanchester by the Bishop of Durham Paul Butler at the weekend.

A spokesperson for the Diocese of Durham said: “I can confirm that the Rev Rupert Kalus (Vicar) and the Rev Ali Miller (Curate) of Lanchester and Burnhope Benefice, had an adulterous affair, which has ended.

“Following the procedures of the Clergy Discipline Measure, The Bishop of Durham has prohibited both Rupert and Ali from their public ministry for a period of 18 and 12 months respectively.

“They have both therefore had to resign their posts.

“The Rt Revd Paul Butler, Bishop of Durham confirmed these facts to the congregation at the normal Sunday service which he led on Sunday August 12.

“We are deeply saddened that this situation has arisen and ask that you respect the privacy of both families and hold them in your prayers.”

The Northern Echo has contacted both of the reverends for comment but no response has been received.