A Church of Scotland minister has been sacked after several women accused him of misconduct.

Rev Dr Elijah Wade Smith is said to have abused his position as a minister of Queen's Park Church in Glasgow.

The 32-year-old, from California in the USA, has been removed as a minister following the incidents of misconduct against several women.

A special committee of the Presbytery of Glasgow launched an investigation into the allegations earlier this month before a disciplinary hearing took place.

A Church of Scotland spokesman said: "A Presbyterial Commission was convened to consider complaints against Dr Elijah Smith, who was then minister at Queen's Park Church.

"The complaints were upheld and a sentencing hearing was held on Wednesday, May 15.

"The decision of the church court was to remove Dr Smith's status as a minister."

The official Queen's Park Govanhill Parish Church website lists the minister's position as vacant.

Rev Smith has been approached for comment.