York's best-known bell-ringer has resigned as the man in charge of the Minster bell tower following his investigation for alleged sexual offences with a girl.

David Potter, a former chairman of the York Guild of Bell Ringers, is to continue ringing at the Minster with the consent of the Dean and Chapter, who are legally responsible for the cathedral.

Earlier this year, the police closed the case against him without bringing charges after months of investigation.

In a statement, Mr Potter said: "I have decided that I will resign as ringing master. This is my own decision. The Dean and Chapter has accepted.

"I hope to remain a member of the band for many years to come and they are happy with that. I just wish my successor all the best."

York Minster said in a statement today: "Mr Potter has offered his resignation as Ringing Master at York Minster and the Dean and Chapter has accepted his resignation. Mr Potter will remain a member of the Minster Band."

Mr Potter's future as ringing master of St Wilfrid's RC Church has yet to be decided. He was the main man behind the installation of its ten bells last decade.

Mr Potter was also suspended as a teacher at Upper Poppleton Junior School after the police investigation began.

City of York Council said today he remained suspended from his job, pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

Following the decision not to bring charges, representatives from the Minster and the education authority met members of York police family protection unit for a briefing.

Last year, in a move prompted by general national concern over paedophiles and unrelated to Mr Potter's case, the bell-ringers' national controlling council issued child protection guidelines for all towers to follow.

Several young children ring in towers in and around the city and in at least one tower, all ringers have to sign a book on each occasion they ring with youngsters.

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