Downing Street has announced the appointment of the next bishop of Newcastle.

Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, who is currently Bishop of Ripon, has been revealed as the next Bishop of Newcastle - which was approved by Her Late Majesty The Queen.

Bishop Helen-Ann, who was born in Edinbrough but then moved to Sunderland, was brought up in the North East, will succeed the Right Reverend Christine Hardman who retired as Bishop of Newcastle in November last year.

Bishop Helen-Ann said: “I am absolutely delighted and excited to be the next Bishop of Newcastle. 

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"With life-long connections to the whole region covered by the Diocese, I am inspired by the example of the Northern Saints, whose engagement in God’s mission lies deep in the fabric and contours of the land. 

"I am, and will continue to be in this new role, a passionate advocate for the region. I look forward immensely to supporting and encouraging the vital work of the Diocese at every level: parishes and benefices, schools, chaplaincies, clergy and lay together as we continue to engage in God’s mission in the season that lies ahead.”

Canon Izzy McDonald-Booth, Chair of Newcastle Diocese’s House of Laity, said: “I am extremely excited to be welcoming Helen-Ann to our Diocese. Her understanding of what makes this region special and her natural ability to connect with people will make her an excellent Bishop. Our Northern Saints, a key part of our rich heritage, have played an important part in her faith journey and one of her passions is telling their story in a contemporary and engaging way.”

A past collegue of Helen-Ann, The Bishop of Berwick, the Right Reverend Mark Wroe adds: “Having worked with Helen-Ann, I am absolutely thrilled that she is to be the next Bishop of Newcastle, returning to her roots here in the North East. Her enthusiasm and energy, her knowledge of our region and its culture, and above all her love of God and of his people will ensure she is an enormous blessing to our parishes and our Diocese.”

The installation of Bishop Helen-Ann as Bishop of Newcastle will take place at Newcastle Cathedral, likely in early 2023.