A LEADING clergyman who has bounced back after a transplant operation and surgery for cancer is facing a third major operation this week.

The Dean of Ripon, the Very Reverend John Metheun, is having his left hip replaced in an operation at St James's Hospital, Leeds.

The 53-year-old told members of the congregation at Ripon Cathedral about his latest operation after they had seen him limping around recently. The problem surfaced over a year ago when he took part in a three-day meandering Palm Sunday walk, from Ripon to Leeds Parish Church.

But his condition was not diagnosed until recently, after painkilling tablets had no effect on his worsening condition.

During his latest enforced absence - expected to be about six weeks - Dean Methueun has asked his congregation for special prayers for his wife Bridget and the couple's two daughters, Judith, 28 and Caroline 27.