FORMER Welwyn rector Alan Winton has been ordained as the new Bishop of Thetford in Norfolk. Canon Winton, who spent ten years as the vicar of St Mary s Church, was consecrated in a ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral. The service was presided over by

FORMER Welwyn rector Alan Winton has been ordained as the new Bishop of Thetford in Norfolk.

Canon Winton, who spent ten years as the vicar of St Mary's Church, was consecrated in a ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral.

The service was presided over by Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, while the Bishop of Hertford, the Rt Revd Christopher Foster, also took part.

Recalling the ceremony, Arun Kataria, the communications officer for the Diocese of St Albans, said: "It all went more than smoothly and was a joyous occasion for the many who turned out to support Alan from St Albans Diocese and beyond."

Speaking about his appointment, Bishop Winton said: "It is great to have the opportunity to serve the church and God in this new way."

The 50-year-old was appointed to the Thetford see by the prime minister on June 30.

He is married to Pippa and has two adult daughters, Sarah and Tasha.