Bishop Alastair made the announcement to his Diocese this morning and said: " I am delighted to welcome Christine to the Diocese of Derby and look forward to working with her."

Mrs Wilson, 51, will take up her new responsibilities in the new year and will work closely with the rest of the Bishop's senior staff team in overseeing the work of the Diocese.

She will have particular responsibility for pastoral and ministerial leadership in the Chesterfield archdeaconry where she will also keep an eye on the building and legal side of the life of the church.

A former chief cashier in a Building Society before becoming a full time mother, Mrs Wilson studied for the priesthood in the mid 90's before being ordained priest in 1998.

So far she has served all of her ministry in the Chichester Diocese and she has been active in a wide range of activities including overseas links, community development and mission strategy. She has also done a great deal of work in the area of spiritual direction and ministerial formation.

The Bishop said today :  "The Diocese works collaboratively and Christine will, I am sure, enjoy working at various levels across the Diocese - not least with the people of her own archdeaconry. I know that the clergy will give her a warm welcome."

Mrs Wilson, who enjoys gardening, cooking and travel in her spare time , said that the new challenge facing her was "an exciting opportunity to participate in the senior leadership of the diocese."

She added: "I look forward to championing the mission and ministry priorities of the diocese and supporting the clergy, parishes and MMA's of the Chesterfield archdeaconry as they build on the opportunities for growth and renewal."

The new Archdeacon will be formally welcomed into the Diocese in the New Year.

Find out more about the Archdeacon designate >>