Statement Regarding Tim Biles

/ Beaminster, News / By

Comment by Rector of the Beaminster Team Ministry Reverend Canon David Baldwin

The Diocese was informed in 2022 that the police were investigating complaints against Tim and the full protocol over who should have been informed was followed this included the Rector and Safeguarding Officer for Sherborne Abbey. The first time The Beaminster Team were aware was last Wednesday evening. Although Tim’s Permission to Officiate in the Diocese had been revoked in 2022 he never informed me on the occasions that I invited him to take part in services in The Beaminster Team.

I am very grateful for your support with this very difficult situation which I know will cause great sadness for some and will allow others to vent their frustration and anger towards the church so soon after the resignation of The Archbishop of Canterbury. Please may I ask for your continued prayers for Jo and myself as we lead you pastorally through this. Also, for the victims of this case and for Tim and Joan as they come to terms with the outcome of the Court Case which will conclude on Tuesday with the sentencing.

Yours in the service of Christ

David

Statement by the Diocese of Salisbury

12 December 2024

Conviction of Timothy Biles

We were horrified to hear the detail of the offences of which Timothy Biles has today been found guilty at Bournemouth Crown Court. We understand these offences were committed a number of decades ago when he was a member of staff and school chaplain at the independent St Francis school in Hooke near Beaminster, which is now closed.

He was convicted of all five charges against him and will be sentenced on Tuesday 17 December. As soon as the police made us aware of the case in 2022 his permission to officiate as a priest was removed. We have provided every assistance to the police with their enquiries.

Our prayers are for the survivors. We urge anyone with a concern regarding abuse whether current or in the past, no matter how long ago, to contact the police. Advice and support can also be obtained from the independent charity Safe Spaces or the diocesan safeguarding team.

Note to editors: Permission to officiate is a Church of England term whereby a bishop can grant a retired priest permission to lead and preach at church services.