Church leaders have distanced themselves from a priest who attacked his parishioners in a newsletter before quitting his post.

Rev Edmund Marquis-Faulkes claimed the "disruptive" actions of some worshippers at St Devenick's Episcopal Church in Aberdeen had forced him out of his job.

The Right Rev Robert Gillies, Bishop of the Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney, is standing in as the church's rector until a replacement is found.

A Scottish Episcopal Church spokeswoman said today: "The Bishop in no way condones the writing of such a letter to a congregation.

"That is not the way he would hope his clergy would behave."

She added that the letter was written before Mr Gillies took up his position in the Diocese 11 days ago.

In the letter Mr Marquis-Faulkes accused some parishioners of trying to undermine the spiritual life and fellowship of the church.

He also claimed he had received complaints about the way his three children led their lives, St Devenick's Church is in the prosperous Aberdeen suburb of Bieldside.

Mr Marquis-Faulkes could not be contacted today.

The Scottish Episcopal Church spokeswoman said it was believed he now intended to pursue a career in education.