Next Archbishop of York announced

There had been speculation that the second most senior job in the Church of England would go to a woman bishop.

But it was announced on Tuesday that Bishop Cottrell, who is married with three children, will take up the role when Dr John Sentamu stands down in June next year.

Bishop Cottrell, who in the past has called on the CofE to shed its middle class “Marks & Spencer” image, said he was “humbled and excited at the prospect of becoming the 98th Archbishop of York.

“I will receive the baton from Archbishop Sentamu. These aren’t just big shoes to fill, but a big heart and a big vision.

“However, I am not daunted.

“Archbishop Sentamu and I have worked together in mission on many occasions and I hope to build on the work he has pioneered.

“Working alongside the Archbishop of Canterbury, I hope to help the church be more joyful and more effective in sharing the gospel and bringing hope and unity to our nation.

“Although I was born and grew up in Essex, I lived and served in Huddersfield for nine years. I know and love the north of England. Two of our children were born there.

“I now look forward to returning and being a voice for the North, sharing the liberating good news of the gospel and helping to address the discrepancies of wealth and opportunity that too often favour the South.”

Bishop Cottrell was ordained as a deacon in 1984 and as a priest in 1985.