A GAY man refused a Church job because of his sexuality has been awarded compensation.

John Reaney will receive £47,345 from the Diocese of Hereford having won an employment tribunal last June.

Mr Reaney, 42, successfully claimed discrimination by the Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Rev Anthony PriddIs, after being refused a job with the Diocese.

The youth worker, from Colwyn Bay, was quizzed on a former gay relationship by the Bishop, and was turned down despite glowing reports from his peers.

The payout follows a remedy hearing in December.

A Church statement said the payment will be met through an anonymous donation.