Churchgoers in three rural parishes near Wantage, whose priest faces child sex charges in South Africa, have been urged to be patient and prayerful.

A message of support has come from the Rt Rev Stephen Cottrell, the Bishop of Reading, to parishioners in the Hanneys, East Challow and Denchworth, after Father Tony Hogg was arrested and charged with indecent assault on a 10-year-old during a recent charity trip.

The 52-year-old priest, of St James the Great Church, in West Hanney, was released on bail, and allowed to travel home, but must return to South Africa to face trial on August 11.

Writing in the current edition of the Hanney News monthly magazine, in the section usually carrying a message to parishioners from Fr Hogg, the bishop wrote: "As we face a painful period of waiting in this benefice of Hanney, Challow, Denchworth and East Challow, can I please ask for your patience?

"I have been enormously humbled by the prayerful support that has been offered to Father Tony since the changes were brought against him.

"As we wait for justice to run its course, the best way we can support Fr Tony is by our prayer and our patience. I long for matters to be resolved swiftly, but I fear it may take some months."

He added: "It is in Fr Tony's best interests and in the best interest of the wider Church that this is our response until we learn the decisions of the courts in South Africa.

"Be assured that I am in contact with Fr Tony, and that he and the parish are in my prayers each day."

Fr Hogg has denied the allegations. His lawyers claim he was the victim of a blackmail attempt. He has voluntarily stepped down from parish duties until the court case is resolved.

As reported in yesterday's Oxford Mail, he may now face charges of sexual assault, following allegations that he also had a sexual relationship with the 10-year-old's 17-year-old brother.