A RETIRED Church of England priest has been charged with a catalogue of sex offences, including while he was a curate in Crediton, on boys and young men dating back more than 40 years.Vickery House (68), who was curate at Crediton Parish Church from 1969 to 1976, faces two charges of indecent assault relating to a boy, then aged 15, in Devon, between 1970 and 1971.

"A special helpline has been set up for those people who are affected on learning of cases of this kind. The helpline will be staffed by the NSPCC and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week."The statement said that "where appropriate" callers will be referred to specially trained police officers and offered a range of local counselling services, if required.The helpline is 0800 389 5344.