THE Venerable Peter Hancock will become the next Bishop of Basingstoke, it's been confirmed.

The 54-year-old, currently based in the Portsmouth diocese, will be officially installed on September 21 at St Paul's Cathedral.

He will assist the Bishop of Winchester and have particular responsibilities for Andover, Basingstoke, Winchester and the surrounding rural areas.

Last Tuesday (June 22) he embarked on a tour of his new patch, including Odiham Church and Sparsholt College.

Archdeacon Hancock said: “When I was ordained 30 years ago I never imagined that I would end up as a bishop so it is a real privilege to have this opportunity.

“My wife Jane and I are very excited by all that lies ahead and look forward to moving to Alresford and working with and serving alongside the parishes and people of the Diocese of Winchester.”

The Bishop of Winchester, the Rt Revd Michael Scott-Joynt, said: “I look forward enormously to Peter joining us in September. He will work alongside me in supporting the life of the Church of England and engaging in all aspects of life in northern Hampshire, education, health and other faiths.

“He will encourage and strengthen church leaders, both lay and ordained.”