THE Dean of Christ Church in Oxford, suspended in a row over pay, has returned to work after being reinstated.

The Very Rev Prof Martyn Percy was suspended in September after being accused of ‘immoral, scandalous or disgraceful conduct’.

But he has won a tribunal hearing thought to have cost about £500,000 and has now returned to work at the Oxford University college where he is also in charge of the cathedral.

Oxford Mail:

It is understood that the tribunal chaired by a former high court judge dismissed the complaints against him following a hearing behind closed doors in June.

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A statement posted on Christ Church’s website said: “An internal tribunal was convened to consider a complaint raised against the Dean in September 2018. Following a thorough investigation, the tribunal has decided that the charges are not upheld and that there is no cause to remove the Dean as Head of House.”

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It added: “We can announce that Martyn Percy will resume his duties as Dean of Christ Church, on his return from holiday on August 27. The complaint process has now concluded.”

Oxford Mail:

The Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Rev Steven Croft, has also welcomed the Dean’s return. He said: “I am delighted to learn that this matter is now resolved.

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“I look forward to seeing Martyn return to the Cathedral and his duties as Dean of Christ Church. This news will be widely welcomed across the Diocese of Oxford. These have been testing times for all involved, and my prayers are with Martyn and Emma (his wife), the Chapter and wider college in the coming months.”

The Dean himself has welcomed the support he has received over the past year.

Christ Church Cathedral tweeted on Sunday: “The Dean presided and preached at the 11am Sung Eucharist today and was greeted with a spontaneous round of applause. Welcome back Martyn: we’re so glad to have you ministering among us again.”

Oxford Mail:

He responded: “I was so deeply moved by the receptions this morning, and both @emmapercy3 and I were touched by all the kindness and care shown by both of the congregations and colleagues.”

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The Dean was appointed in 2014 and it is understood he receives a salary of about £90,000.

Christ Church Treasurer James Lawrie said: “We now look forward to working together to shape the positive development of Christ Church for its continued success.”