A VICAR intimidated elderly parishioners into supporting his controversial plans for a new community hall, it was claimed at a church court.

The Rev Canon Michael Anderson has been accused of applying "undue pressure" on his congregation to quell opposition for a much-criticised £500,000 complex in the graveyard of All Saints' Parish Church, Hordle.

Christopher Clark, the chancellor of the Winchester Diocese, also heard claims that a government planning inspector was misled about crucial parking facts before he overturned New Forest District Council's rejection of the scheme.

Mr Anderson and his supporters last month told the ecclesiastical court - held at All Saints', in Hordle Lane - that the two-storey, muti-use complex was in the best interests of the community, despite widespread local opposition over its cost, potential traffic problems and the unauthorised removal of gravestones.

But the resumption of the hearing saw many of the objectors stridently refuting the church's case.

Lifelong congregation member Margaret Cobb wept as she told how the church's "arrogance and selfishness" over the issue had forced her to worship elsewhere.

She said she believed about half of the All Saints' congregation was against the plan, and when asked why they had not all come forward, she added: "The vicar has put undue pressure on certain people.

"Some members of more senior years have been told not to rock the boat, and some have been made to feel their faith was not strong enough if they didn't believe this was what God wanted."

When asked by church counsel Andrew Johnson if the vicar was not entitled to persuade people of his case, she said: "There is persuasion, and there is intimidation."

One of the main foundations of the objectors' case is the parking problems which already exist in the road.

A government inspector last year overruled district planners and gave permission for the new hall after hearing users could park on Hordle Nurseries' land opposite the church.

But nurseries owner Malcolm Gregory told the court hearing: "I was absolutely amazed when I discovered his report said the field can be used for parking the year round. This has never been true and no one asked me."

The hearing continues.