A community branded by a “toxic parish” by its vicar has increased its flock with more people than ever attending church services this Christmas, it has emerged.

Parishioners of Teme Valley South, near Tenbury Wells, who said they suffered “intense hurt” by the accusation from their former vicar, the Reverend Mark Sharpe, held four services over the festive period and more than 100 people turned out to show their support.

It comes after Mr Sharpe claimed he was forced to flee after he suffered a “campaign of intimidation”.

He left his home in Hanley Broadheath this month after he claimed he had animal excrement thrown at his car, his dog was poisoned and his tyres were slashed.

More than 50 people and 20 children braved icy conditions for the traditional crib service at Hanley William on Christmas Eve joined by the Archdeacon Fred Trethewey and the Christmas Eve midnight service saw 25 people gather in the tiny church of Rochford despite below freezing temperatures.

And on Christmas morning more than 30 people gathered at Eastham for the traditional Christmas service. Churchwarden at Stoke Bliss and Kyle Jessica Middleton said: “It was tremendous. I was so surprised at the turn out we had for the Christmas services. They were lovely, happy services. All of this has actually brought the community together.”

Union Unite last week announced Mr Sharpe is to retire through ill-health. It has lodged a claim for constructive dismissal.