A former bishop who used to officiate services in Wiltshire has been banned from practising within the Church of England.

Peter Hullah 73, has been prohibited from all ministry within the Church, following allegations of misconduct.

Mr Hullah who is now retired was the Bishop of Ramsbury near Marlborough from 1999 to 2005.

It is understood the complainants were two women. Mr Hullah has not been charged with any criminal offence.

He no longer be allowed to officiate formal ceremonies such as weddings, baptisms and funerals.

A spokesman for Mr Hullah said he had agreed to the sanction in August instead of contesting the allegations before a Church tribunal.

“These allegations have not been brought before any form of tribunal,” the spokesman said.

“They are historic matters which have been dealt with by the Church over a period of time and concluded by consent.

“Peter Hullah expresses deep regret to those affected in any way and apologies for any distress caused to anyone involved in this process.”

Mr Hullah is a former headmaster of Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester, which featured in Professor Alexis Jay’s Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, while he was leading the school.

A Church of England spokesman said: “We can confirm that Peter Hullah has now been prohibited from ministry for life following a complaint under the clergy discipline measure brought by the national safeguarding team.

“We would like to acknowledge the courage and offer an unreserved apology on behalf of the Church to those who came forward to share their experience; support has been offered to all involved.

“The Church expects the highest standards from those in leadership and there can be no excuses when this does not happen.

“We will continue to listen to all those who come forward and to work together to make the Church a safer place for all.”