A Rural Dean is responsible for co-ordinating the work of a group of parishes by keeping the Bishop and archdeacon up to date with local happenings, co-ordinating meetings of clergy and meeting with the Bishop from time to time.

Dr Redfern chooses Rural Deans only after consultation with local clergy.

"I am grateful to those who responded to my invitation over the consultation and am pleased to share with you the news that the Revd. Mike Alexander has agreed to take on the role of Rural Dean on a temporary basis for eighteen months" said Dr Redfern, in an announcement read out in Heanor deanery parishes at the weekend.

Mike was ordained priest in 1978 and has worked in parish and education posts across the Midlands throughout his ministry.