When the Christian Union at the University of Derby organised their carol service, to be held in the city’s cathedral, they invited Rev Melvin Tinker, vicar of St John Newland in Hull, to be the preacher.

It transpires, however, that the CU was not empowered to invited Rev Tinker to speak.  Such invitations have to be made by the Dean, the Very Revd Stephen Hance.  The Dean said: “I am aware of online comments this morning claiming that Derby Cathedral has banned the Revd Melvin Tinker from speaking at the Derby University Christian Union Carol Service.”

“The Dean invites all guest preachers for services to be held at the cathedral.…