A retired clergyman in the Church of England faces a possible prison sentence after being found guilty of historic sex abuse.

The Rev Granville Gibson, aged 80, was found guilty at Durham Crown Court on two charges of indecent assault. He was cleared of five other historic sex offences.

A former member of the General Synod and former Archdeacon of Durham, he will go on the sex offenders' register. He will be sentenced at a later date.

The offences took place during his time as vicar of St Clare's, Newton Aycliffe, the court was told. The court heart that senior churchmen knew of allegations against him but no action was taken.

Bishop of Durham Paul Butler said: "Following the conviction today of the Venerable Granville Gibson on two charges of indecent assault, we offer an unreserved apology to all the survivors and those affected by this news. We commend the bravery of those who brought these allegations forward, acknowledging how difficult and distressing this would have been.

"We are profoundly sorry for the abuse perpetrated by Mr Gibson and remain committed to doing everything possible to ensure the wellbeing of children, young people and adults, who look to us for respect and care. Abuse is a terrible crime and a grievous breach of trust, which has lifelong effects."