A letter of support for the embattled Bishop of St Davids has been circulated among the clergy by Rev Canon Michael Butler and fellow members of the Deanery of Narberth.

Last week Bishop Carl Cooper took a leave of absence after days of intense media speculation about an inappropriate relationship with a married priest, saying he feels "emotionally and spiritually battered".

Bishop Carl and his press officer Rev Mandy-Williams, who both recently announced separations in their respective marriages, strongly deny any affair.

Now, Canon Butler hopes his letter will express the wider view of the Diocese, which he believes has so far been overlooked in favour of "media speculation".

In his letter, Canon Butler states he had hoped for "a more compassionate and supportive attitude" to the bishop's split with his wife.

In a statement to the clergy of the diocese last week, Bishop Carl Cooper said: "As you can imagine, the recent hurtful, scurrilous and unwarranted intrusions into our family life have taken their toll. Joy, the children and I feel emotionally and spiritually battered and drained.

"With the Archbishop's agreement, I have decided to take some leave of absence. I shall use Holy week and Easter as a personal opportunity to draw closer to our crucified and risen saviour."

Bishop Carl apologised to the clergy for news of his leave of absence being given to the press before he was able to announce it.

"The statement did not go from my office and I was not notified of its release," he said.