A HOUSEMASTER at Ampleforth College has been suspended while an investigation takes place into an alleged incident said to have taken place more than ten years ago.

Father Christian Shore has been given "administrative leave" while the school conducts an inquiry into the allegation, together with social services and the police.

Father Shore has worked at the college since 1974. He teaches biology and is housemaster of St Hugh's house.

A spokesman for the school said: "Suspicions have been raised concerning events affecting a sixth-form student which are said to have taken place more than a decade ago. We have a very clear policy which requires that any suspicion of this kind must be immediately and thoroughly investigated, regardless of the period that may have elapsed. While the investigation takes place, it is of course necessary for the person concerned to be away from the school."

The spokesman said that no other reports of this nature had been received and that social services had been informed.

A spokesman for social services at North Yorkshire County Council said: "We can confirm that an allegation has been made relating to the conduct of a housemaster at Ampleforth College.

"The matter is now the subject of a joint investigation, and we are working closely with both college officials and the police.

"Social Services were first made aware of this issue at the end of last week. It relates to an alleged incident more than ten years ago.

"At this stage, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further."

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "Ryedale Social Services have told us they have received an historical allegation concerning a former pupil of Ampleforth College, and we will be working closely with them in an investigation."

The Benedictine Community of Ampleforth Abbey, together with lay staff, run the school as a part of the community's work.

Housemasters are responsible, under the headmaster, for the pastoral care of every boy or girl in their house. Each house has a community of about 50 students.

Updated: 11:45 Thursday, April 04, 2002