A priest was left in a sticky situation after he was gunged by his parishioners.

Phil Hodgins, the rector of East Hoathly Parish Church, was covered in a homemade mix of cornflour, food colouring, water, baked beans and spaghetti at the village’s church fete in the rectory garden.

He had told parishioners he would take a gunging if they raised £1,000 to pay towards the maintenance of the church but agreed to take his punishment even though only £600 was raised.

The fete also featured ferret racing, a tombola, stalls selling homemade crafts and children’s activities.

Mr Hodgins is set to celebrate his 25th year as a priest on Sunday with a special service led by the priest who ordained him.

He will step down as Rural Dean of Uckfield after five years’ service.

Anyone wanting to make a donation to the church fund can send cheques made payable to Elly McKay-Smith c/o The Rectory, Church Marks Lane, East Hoathly, Lewes BN8 6EG.