By Jenny Makin
Daily Echo
February 13, 2009
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/4123898.Vicar_arrested_over_child_sex_abuse_claims/
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| Rev Barry Fry |
A CHURCH of England vicar has been arrested over allegations of historic sexual abuse relating to a child, the Daily Echo can reveal.
It is understood that the Rev Barry Fry was questioned by police at a pre-arranged interview at a Southampton station.
Officers from the public protection unit are leading the inquiry surrounding Mr Fry, pictured, who is a vicar at St Barnabas Church in Rose Road, Southampton.
It is thought that the allegations relate to a young boy who used to attend the church regularly, however they date back many years.
Diocese bosses have now suspended the 59-year-old from duty, and services at the church are being taken by a replacement.
Mr Fry is well known in the community and is a prominent bellringer, understood to have played a major role in the installation of six new bells at the church.
He has a son but is thought to have never married.
A spokesman for the Diocese of Winchester confirmed: “The Rev Canon Barry Fry, vicar of the parish of St Barnabas, Southampton, was arrested on Friday, February 6, and released on bail.
“Under the provisions of the Clergy Discipline Measure 2003 the Bishop of Winchester has suspended Canon Barry Fry from exercising or performing any right or duty of the office of priest until the police investigations and legal processes are concluded.
“According to church legislation suspension does not imply that any view has been formed as to whether the allegations that have resulted in the arrest are true or likely to be true.”
A spokesman for Hampshire police said: “Hampshire Constabulary can confirm that it has launched an investigation following an allegation of historic indecent assault involving a child.
“A 59-year-old Southampton man has been arrested and bailed until March 27 pending further inquiries.”
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