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Priest arrested over sex abuse claims
A priest from Wigan has been arrested by police investigating allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1970s.
Father William Green was arrested by Greater Manchester Police last week in relation to an "historic allegation of sexual abuse" dating back to the seventies.
Shocked worshippers at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church on Cale Lane, New Springs were told about the claims at Saturday mass by a bishop from the Diocese of Salford.
The congregation was informed that the allegations were from "some" years ago and that it was church policy under the circumstances that Father Green leave the parish while investigations are underway.
He has been released by police following questioning and bailed until March 10.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police confirmed: "A 66-year-old man from the Aspull area was arrested on Monday, December 17, 2007 on suspicion of sexual abuse.
"The arrest is in relation to historic allegations of sexual abuse.
"The man has been bailed until 10 March 2008 pending further inquiries."
One member of the congregation who didn't want to be named said: "Everyone is completely shocked by these allegations but it's important to remember that these are allegations. People have been left shocked and shattered."
Father Green, who has been at Holy Family for 15 years, was not at his presbytery next to the church.
A spokesman from the Diocese of Salford said: "Father Green is on administrative leave while the police conduct their inquiries.
"Father Green was arrested on Monday, December 17, on suspicion of sexual abuse in relation to historic allegations dating back to the 1970s.
"The church authorities have been co-operating fully with the police in assisting with their investigations."
The diocese has appointed a temporary priest to look after the parish in the interim.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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