The Cabinet Office says the move is "by mutual agreement" but it follows months of negative media reports about his performance.

The plans are subject to a 12-week public consultation which starts on Friday.

This weekend should see the weather turn markedly colder, as Helen Willetts explains.

Rain plus the political environment is creating a "powerful psychological need for escape", travel agents say.

School leaders welcome the "greater clarity" on how to handle the polarising issue for parents and pupils.

General Synod did vote to continue to look at the issue, but bishops say there are "theological and legal barriers" to having such ceremonies now.