A MUCH-loved parish priest is to leave his post after being appointed the new Bishop of Thetford. Canon Alan Winton, rector of Welwyn, will take up his new post in September, when the current Bishop, the Rt Revd

A "MUCH-loved" parish priest is to leave his post after being appointed the new Bishop of Thetford.

Canon Alan Winton, rector of Welwyn, will take up his new post in September, when the current Bishop, the Rt Revd Dr David Atkinson, retires.

Father-of-two Alan told the Welwyn & Hatfield Times he and his family would miss living in Welwyn.

"I have had 10 years in the parish and they have been very good years," he said.

"We have been very happy here."

As for his new role in Norfolk, the 50-year old said: "It will be a challenge but it has come at a very good time for us.

"It is great to have the opportunity to serve the church and God in this new way.

"I am excited about the prospects."

Canon Winton's appointment has been welcomed by churchgoers and clergymen alike.

Parishioner Sir Philip Mawer, who lives in Welwyn, said: "Alan Winton is a much-loved and respected rector.

"He has strengthened the church's contribution to all aspects of community life throughout the Welwyn Team."

Sir Philip, a former secretary-general of the church's parliament, the General Synod, added: "His care for people, his brilliant teaching of the Christian Gospel and his unfussy leadership will make him an excellent bishop for the people of Norfolk."

For more reaction see this week's Welwyn & Hatfield Times, out now.