Vicar removed from post after investigation over 'inappropriate' images
A vicar from Walsall has been removed from his post after he admitted sending inappropriate images and text messages.
Revd Preb Carl Ramsay, the vicar of Pelsall at St Michael and All Angels Church, had to step away from his duties as a reverend in November last year after an investigation was launched.
But now the Diocese of Lichfield has confirmed he has been removed from his role as vicar of Pelsall, after admitting to "offensive behaviour".
Leaders at the Diocese said that while the images and texts were legal to send, the behaviour constitutes "serious misconduct" for a priest.
Revd Ramsay, also Prebendary of Eccleshall and the Rural Dean of Walsall, admitted to sending the images over a period of time.
A Diocese of Lichfield spokesperson said: “Fr Carl Ramsay agreed in November to step back from all ministry while a complaint against him was investigated.
"That process has now concluded.
"Fr Ramsay admitted to sending inappropriate and indecent images and texts, without consent, over an extended period of time.
"The images and texts were offensive in nature but were legal and did not involve children.
“This behaviour constitutes serious misconduct for a priest, from whom we expect the highest standards of personal and professional conduct.
"Fr Ramsay therefore agreed to accept a penalty of removal from office and prohibition from ministry for two years.
"This means that he will not be returning as Vicar of Pelsall.
“Fr Ramsay has also decided to retire in April. This is a separate matter from the disciplinary process.
“The Revd Alison Morris will serve as Priest in Charge at St Michael and All Angels for a period of at least six months from Easter Sunday to ensure pastoral continuity in the parish.”
Revd Ramsay was unavailable for comment.
