A DUNFERMLINE priest has been withdrawn from his parish pending the completion of an investigation.

Father Chris Heenan will be absent from St Margaret's RC church as well as Holy Name Church in Oakley after a complaint was made.

A post on the parish's website from Fr Scott Deeley, who has stepped in as temporary administrator for the two churches, said: "Following the Archbishop’s visit to the parish for the Vigil Masses, many of you will now know that Father Chris Heenan has agreed temporarily to withdraw from the parish following a complaint which has yet to be fully investigated.

"It is understandable that there are likely to be questions and concerns. However, as you will appreciate, there are processes now ongoing which must be allowed to run their course. The Archbishop has assured us that he will keep us informed as and when he can.

"Father Chris assures you of his prayers. We keep him in our prayers and all of those who are involved."

A spokesman for the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh said: “A complaint has been made against a priest based in the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh. While it is being investigated, he will not be in active ministry.”