The Church of England is facing a damaging split within its ranks after its ruling body threw out compromise proposals over women bishops.

Members of the General Synod, the Church's ruling body, were asked to make a "watershed" decision on how to proceed with the introduction of women bishops.

They voted to press ahead with the ordination but without the safeguards demanded by traditionalists.

The synod rejected the traditionalists compromise proposals for new "super bishops" to cater for objectors - and also their preferred option of creating new dioceses.

The synod members did vote to approve work on a national statutory code to accommodate those within the Church who object to women bishops.

The decision to go ahead with work on the code came after more than six hours of debate by the General Synod which saw extraordinary scenes, with one bishop in tears as he spoke of being "ashamed" of the Church of England.

The Rt Rev Stephen Venner, Bishop of Dover, who is in favour of women bishops said: "I have to say, Synod, for the first time in my life, I feel ashamed.

"We have talked for hours about wanting to give an honourable place to those who disagree.

"We have been given opportunities for both views to flourish. We have turned down every, almost every, realistic opportunity for those who are opposed to flourish."

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