Rowan Williams has briefly swapped the problems of an ailing church for a more enjoyable role launching a new ale during his visit to Telford.

Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams has deplored attempts by governments in Europe to prohibit Muslim women from publicly wearing the burqa.

Concerned Anglicans have written an Open Letter to Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams, asking him to acknowledge the contribution of so many LGBT people, often partnered, to the ministry of the church and to promote rigorous and prayerful study of the biblical, theological and other issues involved, in the light of present knowledge.

In a newspaper interview, Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams says there is "no problem" with gay clergy and bishops, if they are celibate.