THE founder of the high-profile Peniel Church has resigned - after having an affair.

Married Michael Reid, a former insurance salesman, confessed he had "sinned" and had no choice but to resign from the church board and from the position of principal at the Peniel Academy.

Mr Reid has travelled the world with his wife, Ruth, promoting the evangelical church, based in Coxtie Green Road, Pilgrims Hatch, Brentwood.

The church - which has about 600 followers as well as a college, school and publishing company - has refused to confirm the name of the other person involved.

Mr Reid said: "It is with great sorrow and regret that I have resigned from the church board and have stepped down from official duties.

"I confess that I have sinned by committing adultery. I recognise that I have failed in my duties and acted in a way that harmed the church.

"I take full responsibility for my actions and so I resigned.

"I apologise to my wife and family and all of you whose trust I have betrayed, and ask for your forgiveness and prayers."

The Rev Peter Linnecar, senior pastor for 30 years, has taken over Mr Reid's responsibilities.

He said: "Bishop Reid has been a servant of this church for 32 years. We are deeply sorry that this has happened.

"He has recognised his sin and taken full responsibility for his actions and resigned.

"We believe the gospel of Jesus Christ and that our God is a God of love, forgiveness and restoration from all sin and we would ask that you pray for all concerned and respect privacy at this difficult time."

Access to the websites for the schools and publishing company was unavailable yesterday.