THE Right Reverend Stephen Geoffrey Cottrell is to be the next Archbishop of York, it was announced earlier today.

The current Lord Bishop of Chelmsford will take over from the Most Rev and Right Hon Dr John Sentamu, who is due to retire in June, next year.

Bishop Cottrell will become the 98th Archbishop of York, and will share leadership of the Church of England with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

A renowned preacher, author and communicator, he said: “I am 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."

Bishop Cottrell, who was born and grew up in Essex, and is married with three children, lived and worked in Huddersfield for nine years, and says he looks forward to returning to the north.

Bishop of Leeds, the Rt Rev Nick Baines said: “I am delighted that Stephen Cottrell is to come back north to be the next Archbishop of York.

"He brings unique gifts and experience. I hugely welcome his nomination.”

Archbishop Justin Welby also welcomed the appointment.

“Archbishop Sentamu’s ministry has been extraordinarily significant. In Bishop Stephen there is a worthy successor," he said.

“He is someone who radiates the joy and love of Jesus, making his hearers want to meet and know Christ better.

“He has been a Bishop for 15 years, and wherever he has gone he has spread the love of God, leading churches to be more confident in what they believe and more passionate in what they do for their communities.

“His long experience in many areas, including nine years in the north of England, means that he brings wisdom as well as gifts in his ministry. He writes beautifully, engagingly and honestly, easily read and profoundly thoughtful.

Archbishop Sentamu said:

“Bishop Stephen Cottrell has the Gospel in his belly and a tiger in the tank!

“I am glad he is returning to the northern province where he with others developed the Emmaus course for evangelism, nurture and discipleship. His greatest passion is to share the Gospel with everyone in a friendly and accessible way.

“His nomination as my successor has gladdened my heart and he can rely on my prayers."

Bishop Cottrell is married to Rebecca, a potter, and they have three sons.