An 82-year-old retired vicar from Ciliau Aeron has spoken of his disappointment on being told he could no longer carry out church services because he is too old to be covered by insurance.

John Emrys Jones has been conducting services in Cilcennin, Ystrad Aeron, Trefilan and Cribyn due to a shortage of vicars, but was told his licence would be withdrawn in December.

Mr Jones fears the ruling will affect rural churches.

“Two churches every Sunday will be short of a minister to take a service,” he said. “There are two of us that help out every Sunday. They will have to rely on lay people to take the service.

“I’m convinced it will close certain churches if they don’t have a regular minister.”

However, church leaders now say they are seeking a possible solution to enable him to carry on.

“St Davids Diocese takes the safety of those working within the church seriously and has recently had concerns about the insurance provision for those serving in our churches over the age of 80 years old,” said a spokesperson.

“Following legal advice we are now confident that all our clergy are sufficiently insured, regardless of their age, and will be able to continue their valuable service, for which we are extremely grateful.

“We are writing to all those affected and we apologise for the upset and confusion caused.”