THE NEW Bishop of Basingstoke will be consecrated by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Winchester Cathedral tomorrow.

As previously reported by The Gazette, Reverend Canon David Williams, who is currently the vicar of Christ Church Winchester, was announced as the new Bishop of Basingstoke in June.

David has served in the Diocese for the past 13 years and together with his wife Helen, he has played a leading role in the growth of the church and working closely with the local community, including the Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester Prison and the University of Winchester.

Around 1,200 people, including Basingstoke MP Maria Miller and North West Hampshire MP Sir George Young, will be attending the service held by The Most Reverend Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, tomorrow morning.

Following the service, the new Bishop of Basingstoke’s role will be to work with the Bishop of Winchester, the Right Reverend Tim Dakin, to champion church communities.

He will also embark on a wide-ranging tour to visit churches and community groups across Basingstoke and north Hampshire.

Rev David Williams said: “I have a deep appreciation of the depth of worship and ministry of the churches in this diocese.

“There are 196 churches across north Hampshire, actively serving their local communities. As I begin my new ministry I look forward to hearing their hopes, dreams and challenges and supporting them in their important work.

“Faith in Jesus Christ is at the heart of our local churches, with a deeply personal dimension as well as a commitment to a public expression of that faith. As Bishop I hope to support people in expressing both aspects of their faith.”

The Bishop of Winchester, the Right Reverend Tim Dakin, added: “I’m delighted that the Archbishop of Canterbury has decided to consecrate David here in Winchester.

“David’s work in the Diocese over the past 13 years and the relationships he has forged mean he is well-fitted for the task ahead.

“As he takes up his new role I’m sure that many across the Diocese and beyond will join me in praying for him and for his ministry among us.”

Rev Williams will succeed the Right Reverend Peter Hancock, who is now the Bishop of Bath and Wells.