A simmering row at a Sandringham church hit such a discordant note that King Charles himself was reportedly asked to mediate.
A bitter feud between the vicar and choirmaster erupted over the future direction of the choir at St Mary Magdalene Church – the same site where the Royal Family traditionally attends Christmas service.
The clash left the choir in tatters, with dwindling attendance, furious parishioners, and the Bishop of Norwich’s inbox overflowing with complaints.
At the heart of the dispute is Rev Canon Paul Williams, the King’s Domestic Chaplain, who took up his post on 2023 after moving from Tewkesbury Abbey.
He is said to be keen on modernising the centuries-old choir, including launching a social media presence to promote its work.
But his plans appear to have struck a chord with Dr Claire Stewart, the long-serving and much-admired Director of Music, who hit back with a 28-page grievance report in response to a review of her role.
Sources say the once-harmonious church has been plunged into an ‘unholy row’, with some likening the ongoing drama to an episode of The Vicar of Dibley.
King Charles, who regularly worships at the 16th-century church, is understood to have been made fully aware of the dispute.
At the heart of the dispute is Rev Canon Paul Williams, the King’s Domestic Chaplain, who took up his post on 2023 after moving from Tewkesbury Abbey. Pictured: King Charles III with Rev Canon Paul Williams as he attends the Sunday service at St. Mary Magdalene church in Sandringham, Norfolk, UK, on 26th November, 2023
Dr Claire Stewart has served as choirmaster for 12 years and is described by parishioners as ‘hugely adored’ and under immense pressure as the rift deepens
King Charles, who regularly worships at the 16th-century church, is understood to have been made fully aware of the dispute
Insiders say he lingered after a recent service to speak personally with concerned members of the congregation.
‘It’s turning into an unholy row and it’s starting to get very bitter and damaging,’ a source told The Sun.
‘It is overshadowing what should be a harmonious parish church on the King’s royal estate and heads need to be banged together.’
Dr Stewart has served as choirmaster for 12 years and is described by parishioners as ‘hugely adored’ and under immense pressure as the rift deepens.
In an attempt to calm the waters, local councillor Lord Greville Howard, Baron Greville of Rising, convened a private meeting earlier this month with church leaders in a bid to broker peace.
But tensions remain high, and choir numbers at Sunday services and rehearsals have noticeably thinned amid the ongoing turmoil.
MailOnline has approached the Palace for comment.
