ST SAMPSON’S former rector faces a financial claim from the parish after failing to remove his kitchen when he left. If Rev. Jim Sykes (pictured) does not cover the costs, the Church of England has pledged to do so.

The douzaine claims that in May 2004 Mr Sykes signed the minutes of a parish meeting that recorded his pledge to remove the kitchen, installed in an upstairs room, if required, once he left office. But he did not and now the douzaine has removed it so the building can be ready for his replacement. Ratepayers voted by 19 to three to pursue Mr Sykes for the cost of the work at the latest St Sampson’s parish meeting.

During the meeting, Rev. Kevin Northover said that it was rather embarrassing for the dean because he did not hold that position at the time Mr Sykes had been appointed and had nothing to do with the kitchen.