Announcements
13 August 2026
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Sarah Watson, Priest-in-Charge of the Benefices of Allestree St Edmund & Darley Abbey; Allestree St Nicholas; and Quarndon, has also been appointed part-time Acting Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire. Sarah will legally be Assistant Archdeacon from Monday, 24 August 2026, to become Acting Archdeacon on Tuesday, 29 September, 2026. Sarah will be sharing her time between her parish and Archdeacon roles.Contact details for Sarah during this period will be:sarah.watson@derby.anglican.org. Sue Hidderley-Burton will act as PA to Sarah:sue.hidderley-burton@derby.anglican.org 01332 388682
The Revd Adam Watkinson, Chaplain to the Bishop of Derby, has announced his retirement. Adam’s last day will be Friday, 16 October 2026, with his retirement taking effect from Saturday, 17 October 2026. Bishop Jackie thanks Adam for his ministry as Bishop's Chaplain during this particular season in the life of the Diocese and the Bishop's Office. We wish him well in his retirement.
Derby City Deanery
- The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Alice (Mina) Munns, Vicar of the benefice of Derby St Alkmund and St Werburgh and Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Derby St John, has also been appointed Area Dean. Mina started in post on 10 August, 2026.
- The Revd Peter Jackson, Vicar of the benefice of Derby St Luke, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean and started in post on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
- The Revd Phillippa Taylor, Priest-in-Charge of Boulton, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean and started in post on Monday, 10 August 2026.
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Jill (Jilly) Hancock, interim Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Chesterfield Holy Trinity and Christ Church, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed to the same benefice on a permanent basis. This took effect on 11 August, 2026.
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Louise Petheram, House for Duty Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hope, Castleton and Bradwell, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed House for Duty Vicar of the same benefice following the lifting of Suspension of Presentation. Louise will be instituted and inducted on Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 10.30 am at St Peter’s Hope by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales acting as the Acting Bishop of Derby’s commissary.
The Revd Lee Townend, Rector of the benefice of Dronfield with Holmesfield (Team Ministry) has announced his retirement. Lee’s last day in post will be Monday, 31 August 2026, with his retirement taking effect from Tuesday, 1 September 2026.
23 July 2026
The Venerable Ian Gatford, Curate of Clifton with Glapton, (Southwell) 1967-1971, Team Vicar of Clifton 1971-1975, Vicar of Sherwood 1975-1984, Canon Residentiary of Derby Cathedral (Derby) 1984-1999, Archdeacon of Derby and Honorary Canon of Derby Cathedral 1993-2005, who retired in 2005, died on Saturday, 18 July 2026. The funeral will take place on Tuesday, 4 August 2026 at 2 pm at Derby Cathedral.
Bishop Jackie writes: The Ven Ian Gatford has been a faithful servant of Christ and the Church. He will be remembered fondly in the Diocese of Derby where he served as Residentiary Canon and Archdeacon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, his family and friends, and all the places where he served. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
16 July 2026
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Dwayne Engh, Priest-in-Charge of Ashbourne with Mapleton, of Ashbourne St John and of Clifton and of Norbury with Snelston, has also been appointed Area Dean of Carsington. Dwayne started in post on 16 July 2026.
The Revd Rebecca (Bex) Allpress, Rector of Brailsford with Shirley, Osmaston with Edlaston and Yeaveley, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean of Carsington. Bex started in post on 22 June 2026.
The Revd Lisa Price, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Hope, Castleton and Bradwell, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Associate Vicar of the parish of Andover, Diocese of Winchester. Lisa will be licensed to her new post on 12 October 2026.
9 July 2026
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Peter Dale, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Mackworth St Francis, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Chaddesden St Philip and Derby St Mark, in the same diocese. Peter will be licensed on Sunday, 20 September 2026 at 3 pm at St Philip’s Chaddesden by the Acting Bishop of Derby, assisted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire
The Acting Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Canon Carolyn Cooke, Anglican Chaplain of La Côte Anglican Church, Diocese of Gibraltar in Europe, has been appointed part-time Rector of the benefice of Hathersage with Bamford & Derwent, and Grindleford, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
15 May 2026
The Revd Canon Phil Mann has announced his resignation as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Mackworth St Francis, Diocese of Derby. Phil’s last day in post will be Tuesday, 2 June 2026. Phil will continue as Pioneer Minister of Derby St Werburgh’s BMO.
The Revd Andy Bond, Assistant Curate (Associate Minister) of Derby St Werburgh BMO and Assistant Curate (Assistant Minister) of the benefice of Mackworth St Francis, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of Mackworth St Francis. Andy will be licensed on Wednesday, 3 June 2026 at 7 pm at St Francis’ Mackworth by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire acting as the Acting Bishop of Derby’s commissary, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Dr Michael (Mike) Firbank will be collated and inducted as Vicar of the benefice of Long Eaton St John, Diocese of Derby, on Monday, 27 July 2026 at 7 pm at St John’s Long Eaton by the Archdeacon of East Derbyshire acting as the Acting Bishop of Derby’s commissary, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Daniel Heaton will be instituted and inducted as Team Rector of the benefice of Staveley and Barrow Hill, Diocese of Derby, on Monday, 29 June 2026 at 7 pm at St John the Baptist Staveley by the Archdeacon of East Derbyshire acting as the Acting Bishop of Derby’s commissary, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Emma Mallord, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Littleover and Blagreaves, and Assistant Curate of the benefice of Findern, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of St Paul’s Stockingford, Diocese of Coventry. Emma will be licensed to her new post on 28 July 2026.
The Revd Giles Orton, Priest-in-Charge (SSM) of the benefice of Derby St Anne, Diocese of Derby, has announced his resignation. Giles’ last day in post was Monday, 4 May 2026, with his resignation taking effect from Tuesday, 5 May 2026.
30 April 2026
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Daniel Heaton, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Horbury with Horbury Bridge, Diocese of Leeds, has been appointed Team Rector of the benefice of Staveley and Barrow Hill, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
24 Aprl 2026
The Revd Michael Guest, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Heath (Derby) 1999-2007, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Barlborough and Renishaw 2007-2013, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Killamarsh 2007-2013, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Killamarsh and Renishaw 2013-2022, who retired in 2022 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate from 2023-2026, died on 19 April 2026. The funeral will take place on Monday, 11 May 2026 at 11 am at All Saints Heath.
The Revd Canon Julian Hollywell has announced his resignation as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Chaddesden St Philip and Derby St Mark, Diocese of Derby. Julian’s last day in post was 31 March 2026. Julian will continue as Vicar of the benefice of Spondon in the same diocese.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Nicholas (Nick) Parish, Assistant Curate (SSM) of the benefice of Derby St Peter and Christ Church with Holy Trinity, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Chaplain to Repton School in the same diocese. Nick was licensed to this post on Monday, 13 April 2026 by the Bishop of Repton.
9 April 2026
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Michael (Mike) Firbank, Vicar of the benefice of Gresley, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Swadlincote and Hartshorne, and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Newhall, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the benefice of Long Eaton St John in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
1 April 2026
The Revd Benedict (Mark) Crowther-Alwyn, Curate of Fenny Stratford and Water Eaton (Oxford) 1977-1980, Curate of Moulsecoomb St Andrew (Chichester) 1980-1981, Team Vicar of the same benefice 1981-1983, Rector of Glasgow St Serf (Glasgow and Galloway) 1983-1987, Rector of Baillieston St John 1983-1987, Rector of Bassingham St Michael and All Angels (Lincoln) 1987-1990, Vicar of Aubourn St Peter with Haddington 1987-1990, Vicar of Carlton-le-Moorland St Mary with Stapleford 1987-1990, Rector of Thurlby St Germain with Norton Disney 1987-1990, Vicar of Elmton (Derby) 1990-2003, Priest-in-Charge of Matlock St Giles 2003-2005, Rector of the same benefice 2005-2014, Rector of Matlock St Giles, Dethick, Lea And Holloway 2014-2023, who retired in 2023 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate 2023-2026, died on 25 March 2026.
Mark will be brought into St Mary and All Saints Chesterfield at 4.30 pm on Friday, 10 April, followed by a service of Evening Prayer.
The Funeral (Requiem) Mass will be held at 10 am on Saturday, 11 April, followed by burial at Barlow churchyard.
The Revd Pam Macnaughton, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the benefice of Ripley, Diocese of Derby, has announced her resignation. Pam’s last day in post will be 30 April 2026, with her resignation taking effect from 1 May 2026.
The Revd Lindsay Pearson will be collated as Canon for Worship and Music at Derby Cathedral, Diocese of Derby, on Sunday, 21 June 2026 at 5.15 pm at Derby Cathedral by the Bishop of Derby and installed by the Dean of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Malcolm Pyatt, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of St John Newbold with Dunston, Diocese of Derby, has announced his retirement. Malcolm’s last day in post will be Friday, 3 April 2026, with his retirement taking effect from Saturday, 4 April 2026.
The Revd Prebendary Romita Shrisunder will be collated as Canon for Community Outreach and Social Justice at Derby Cathedral, Diocese of Derby, on Sunday, 26 April 2026 at 5.15 pm at Derby Cathedral by the Bishop of Derby and installed by the Dean of Derby.
19 March 2026
The Revd Canon Patrick Coleman, Vicar of the benefice of Chesterfield St Mary and All Saints, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Assistant Curate (House for Duty) at Guildford Cathedral, Diocese of Guildford. Patrick’s last day in post will be Friday, 1 May 2026.
13 March 2026
The Revd Margaret Slyfield, Curate of Buxton and Burbage with King Sterndale (Derby) 2014-2019, Associate Priest of the same 2019-2024, Associate Priest in the parishes of Chelmorton, Earl Sterndale and Taddington, within the benefice of The White Peak Group, 2024-2026, died on 9 March 2026.
Her funeral will take place on Wednesday, 25 March 2026 at 10.30 am at St John the Baptist Tideswell.
12 March 2026
The Revd Joseph (Joe) Cooper will be instituted as Rector of the benefice of Hasland and Vicar of the benefice of Temple Normanton by the Bishop of Derby, with the inducted by the Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, and licensed by the Bishop as Priest-in-Charge of the parish of St Peter Calow, on Monday, 1 June 2026 at 7 pm at St Paul’s Hasland, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
5 March 2026
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Lindsay Pearson, Priest-in-Charge of St Michael and All Angels Cottingley and Holy Trinity Bingley with St Wilfrid's Gilstead, Diocese of Leeds, has been appointed Canon for Worship and Music at Derby Cathedral, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Sarah Watson will stand down as Area Dean of Derby City, Diocese of Derby, from Wednesday, 1 April 2026. She continues in post as Priest-in-Charge of the benefices of Allestree St Edmund & Darley Abbey, of Allestree St Nicholas, and of Quarndon.
The Revd Samantha (Sam) Dennis will be licensed as Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Sawley, Diocese of Derby, on Tuesday, 14 April 2026 at 7 pm at All Saints Sawley by the Bishop of Repton.
The Revd Sandra Doore’s interim post as Vicar in the benefice of Buxton with Burbage and King Sterndale, Diocese of Derby, will finish on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, due to pastoral reorganisation.
19 February 2026
The Revd Jason Kennedy has announced his resignation as Assistant Curate (Enabling Minister) at the Haven LEP in Derby City Deanery, Diocese of Derby. His last day in post will be 28 February 2026. He will remain as Assistant Curate (Associate Minister) in the benefice of Littleover and Blagreaves and in the benefice of Findern.
12 February 2026
The funeral for the Revd Christopher (Michael) Brinkworth, who died on 24 January 2026, will take place at St Anne's Derby. On Monday, 23 February 2026 at 4.30 pm there will be Reception into Church and Vespers of the Dead, followed by a Requiem Mass on Tuesday, 24 February 2026 at 10 am.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Samantha (Sam) Dennis, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Sawley, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Mark Griffin will be instituted as Vicar of the benefice of Beeley and Edensor, Diocese of Derby, on Sunday,12 April 2026 at 4 pm at St Anne’s Beeley by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales.
5 February 2026
Collation and Installation of the Revd Emma Sykes as Archdeacon of East Derbyshire
Derby Cathedral. Sunday, 17 May 2026 at 5.15 pm
The clergy and laity of the Archdeaconry of East Derbyshire, and all those wanting to support from elsewhere in the diocese, are warmly invited to join the Bishop of Derby in the Cathedral Church as Emma begins her new ministry.
>> New Archdeacon announced for East Derbyshire
Emma will be collated by the Bishop to her new role and the Dean of Derby will place her in her stall within the Cathedral.
We hope you will be able to attend this service: please hold Emma and the Archdeaconry in your prayers.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Joseph (Joe) Cooper, Prison Chaplain at HMP Ranby, Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham, has been appointed Rector of the benefice of Hasland, Vicar of the benefice of Temple Normanton and Priest-in-Charge of the parish of St Peter Calow, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Fiona Kouble has been appointed Area Dean of Peak Deanery, Diocese of Derby. She started in post on 4 February, 2026. She will continue as Vicar of the benefice of Tideswell.
2 February 2026
The Revd Catherine (Kate) Buckley, Curate (OLM) of Walton-on-Trent with Croxall, Rosliston with Linton and Castle Gresley (Derby) 2017-2022, Curate (OLM) of Seale and Lullington with Coton-in-the-Elms 2017-2022, Curate (OLM) of Hartshorne and Bretby 2017-2019, Curate (OLM) of Stapenhill Immanuel 2017-2022, Curate (OLM) of Swadlincote 2017-2019 and Curate (OLM) of Swadlincote and Hartshorne 2020-2022, died on 18 January, 2026. Her funeral will be at Bretby Crematorium, followed by a memorial service on Thursday, 5 February 2026 at 3 pm at St John the Baptist Croxall.
30 January 2026
The Revd Canon Christopher (Michael) Brinkworth, Curate of Lancaster St Mary (Blackburn) 1967-1970, Curate of Milton (Portsmouth) 1970-1974, Vicar of Ault Hucknall (Derby) 1974-1984, Vicar of Derby St Anne and St John 1984-2006, Honorary Canan of Derby Cathedral 2000-2006, who retired in 2006 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate from 2006-2026, died on 24 January 2026. Details of the funeral will be announced once confirmed.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Adam Watkinson, Chaplain of Repton School, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Chaplain to the Bishop of Derby in the same diocese. Adam will begin his induction on 1 February 2026 on a part-time basis, with his full-time role starting on 1 May 2026. His last day in post at Repton School will be 30 April 2026.
29 January 2026
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Mark Griffin, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Beeley and Edensor, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
22 January 2026
The Revd Jeremy Allum, Curate of Hornchurch St Andrew (Chelmsford) 1962-1967, Priest-in-Charge of West Derby St Luke (Liverpool) 1967-1969, Vicar of the same benefice 1969-1975, Priest-in-Charge of Boulton (Derby) 1975-1990, Rural Dean of Melbourne 1986-1990, Vicar of Hathersage 1990-1998, who retired in 1998 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate 1998-2021, died on 2 January, 2026. His funeral will take place on Friday, 6 February 2026 at 11.30 am at Derby Cathedral.
The Revd Dawn Knight will be collated as Vicar of the benefice of Cotmanhay and Shipley, Diocese of Derby, on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at 7 pm at Christ Church Cotmanhay by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Acting Archdeacon of East Derbyshire.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Prebendary Romita Shrisunder, Bishop's Director of Ordinands, Diocese of Lichfield, has been appointed Canon for Community Outreach and Social Justice at Derby Cathedral, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
15 January 2026
The Revd Esther (Rachma) Abbott will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge (House for Duty) of the benefice of Ault Hucknall and Scarcliffe and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Bolsover, Diocese of Derby, on Saturday, 7 March at 3 pm at St John the Baptist Ault Hucknall by the Bishop of Derby assisted by the Acting Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
8 January 2026
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Esther (Rachma) Abbott, who holds the Bishop of Salisbury’s Permission to Officiate, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge (House for Duty) of the benefice of Ault Hucknall and Scarcliffe and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Bolsover, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Fiona Barber will be licensed as Associate Minister (Assistant Curate) of the benefice of Sinfin Moor, Diocese of Derby, on Saturday 28th February at 3 pm at Sinfin Moor Church by the Bishop of Derby.
23 December 2025
The Revd Philip (Phil) Michell will be licensed for his role as Lead Agricultural Chaplain to Derbyshire Rural Chaplaincy, Diocese of Derby, on Monday, 19 January 2026 at 10 am in the Conference Room at Bakewell Livestock Market by the Bishop of Derby.
18 December 2025
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Emma Sykes, Vicar of St Barnabas Erdington and Oversight Minister for the Erdington Oversight Area, Diocese of Birmingham, has been appointed Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The full public statement is available at New Archdeacon announced for East Derbyshire.
11 December 2025
The Revd Gillian (Gill) Ball will be licensed as Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the benefice of Old Brampton and Great Barlow and of the benefice of Loundsley Green, The Ascension LEP, Diocese of Derby, on Tuesday, 6 January 2026 at 7 pm at the Church of the Ascension, Loundsley Green by the Bishop of Repton, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Fiona Barber, Assistant Curate in the benefice of Sinfin Moor, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Associate Minister (Assistant Curate) of the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
4 December 2025
The Rt Revd Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton, Diocese of Derby, has announced his retirement. Malcolm’s last day in post will be 30 April 2026, with his retirement taking effect from 1 May 2026. The full public statement is available at www.derby.anglican.org.
3 December 2025
The Revd Adele Barker, Chaplain to the Bishop of Derby, Diocese of Derby, has announced her resignation. Adele’s last day in post will be 28 February 2026. Bishop Libby is very grateful for the ministry she has shared with Adele and her commitment to the role in the coming months before she steps away.
28 November
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Gillian (Gill) Ball, Assistant Curate (SSM) of the benefice of Old Brampton and Great Barlow and of the benefice of Loundsley Green, The Ascension LEP, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled
21 November
Revd Matthew (Matt) Green will be instituted as Rector of the Benefice of Aston-on-Trent, Elvaston, Weston-on-Trent and Shardlow, Barrow-upon-Trent with Twyford and Swarkestone, on Saturday, 24 January 2026, at 3 pm at All Saints, Aston-on-Trent by the Bishop of Derby and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
Revd Frances (Fran) Smettem will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Eyam with Foolow and Baslow, and Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of Curbar and Stoney Middleton, on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, at 7 pm at St Lawrence’s Eyam, by the Bishop of Derby, assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
6 November
Canon Jack Cooper, Lay Canon of Derby Cathedral until 17th October, when his term of office came to an end, has been appointed Lay Canon Emeritus with effect from 18 October 2025.
The Revd Susannah (Susie) Curtis, Ordained Ministry Development Officer and holder of the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate, Diocese of Derby, has stepped down as Assistant Area Dean of Derby City. Her last day in this role was 14 September 2025.
The Revd Alan Winfield, Associate Priest of Melbourne, Smisby, Stanton-by-Bridge and Ticknall, Diocese of Debry, has been appointed Assistant Area Dean of Mercia. His first day in this role was 3 November 2025.
30 October
The Revd Sarah Colver, Vicar of Old Brampton and Great Barlow and Priest-in-Charge of Loundsley Green LEP, Diocese of Derby, has stepped down as Assistant Area Dean of North East Derbyshire. Her last day in this role was Saturday, 18 October 2025.
23 October
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Matthew (Matt) Green, Curate of Emmanuel Loughborough, Diocese of Leicester, has been appointed Rector of the Benefice of Aston-on-Trent, Elvaston, Weston-on-Trent and Shardlow, Barrow-upon-Trent with Twyford and Swarkestone, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Laura Neilson, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Dinting Vale and the Glossopdale Mission Community, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed interim part-time Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Charlesworth and Gamesley and of the benefice of Dinting Vale, Diocese of Derby. Laura will be licensed on Sunday, 23 November 2025 at 4pm at Holy Trinity Dinting Vale by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
16 October
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Frances (Fran) Smettem, Assistant Curate in the benefice of Chew Valley West, Diocese of Bath and Wells, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Eyam with Foolow and Baslow, and Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of Curbar and Stoney Middleton, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
9 October
The Revd John Drackley, Curate of Eckington, (Derby) 1959-1962, Curate of the Good Shepherd with St Peter’s Lees (Southwark) 1962-1963, Curate of Derby St Thomas (Derby) 1963-1967, Curate of Matlock and Tansley 1967-1977, Priest-in-Charge of Radbourne, of Longford and of Dalbury and Long Lane 1977-1982, Curate of Turnditch and Hazelwood 1982-1995, Curate of Matlock St Giles 1995-1998, who retired in 1998, held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate 1998-2016, and was for many years Secretary of the Diocesan Advisory Committee, died on Sunday, 29 June 2025.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Phil Michell, Rector of the Benefice of Hulland, Atlow, Kniveton, Bradley and Hognaston and Area Dean of Carsington, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Lead Agricultural Chaplain to Derbyshire Rural Chaplaincy and will hold the Bishop of Derby’s licence in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Fay Price, Assistant Curate in the Benefice of Derby St Alkmund and St Werburgh, Diocese of Derby, has announced her resignation as she moves to the Diocese of Gloucester. Fay’s last day in post will be Wednesday, 3 December 2025.
2 October
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Christopher (Chris) Neilson, interim Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Whitfield, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed to the same benefice on a permanent basis. This took effect on 25 September 2025.
The secondment arrangement with the Diocese of Leicester, whereby Carolyn Shoyer has been Director of Education for the Diocese of Derby, is concluding on 31st October 2025. Carolyn will return to her role as Director of Education in the Diocese of Leicester fulltime. We thank Carolyn for her leadership of Derby Diocesan Board of Education for the past 4 years. Liz Seymour, currently Deputy Director of Education, will become interim Acting Director of Education effective 1 November 2025.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Venerable Matthew Trick, Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire and Residential Canon of Derby Cathedral, Diocese of Derby, has also been appointed Acting Archdeacon of East Derbyshire from 1 October 2025.
25 September
The Revd Josephine (Jo) Harbidge, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Walton St John, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Academic and Formational Tutor at St Hild College. Jo's last day in post will be 31 October 2025.
The Revd Katherine (Kate) Plant, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Breadsall and of the benefice of Morley with Smalley, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed part-time Associate Vicar of Bingley Holy Trinity with St Wilfrid's Gilstead, and St Michael and All Angels Cottingley, Diocese of Leeds.
18 September
The Revd Nicholas (Nick) Green, Vicar of the benefice of Walton St John, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of Christchurch Stockton, Diocese of Durham.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the following clergy have taken on additional responsibilities in the diocese alongside their current roles, and were licensed on Sunday, 7 September, as follows:
The Revd Katrina Jenkins: Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) in the benefices of Matlock Bank and Tansley, of Darley, South Darley and Winster, and of Matlock Bath and Cromford.
The Revd Stephen Monk: Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) in the benefices of Matlock, Dethick, Lea and Holloway and of Matlock Bank and Tansley.
The Revd Richard Reade: Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) in the benefices of Matlock, Dethick, Lea and Holloway, of Darley, South Darley and Winster, and of Matlock Bath and Cromford.
The Revd Catherine (Cathie) Watson, Assistant Curate in the Benefices of Allestree St Edmund and Darley Abbey, of Allestree St Nicholas and of Quarndon, Diocese of Derby, has announced her resignation as she moves to the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Cathie’s last day in post will be 24 September 2025.
29 August
The Revd Anita Matthews will be instituted as Rector of the benefice of Derby St Peter and Christ Church with Holy Trinity, Diocese of Derby, on Monday, 20 October 2025 at 2.30 pm at St Peter’s Derby by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Venerable Dr Paul Moore, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hathersage with Bamford and Derwent, and Grindleford, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Rector of the same benefice.
Paul will be instituted on Wednesday, 24 September 2025 at 7 pm at St Michael and All Angels, Hathersage by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
21 August
Tumpa Das has announced her resignation as Administrator to the Bishop of Derby. Owing to personal circumstances, her last day at work will be Thursday, 21 August 2025, with her resignation taking effect from Saturday, 23 August 2025.
14 August
The Revd Lisa Taylor will be licensed as part-time Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Wilne and Draycott with Breaston, Diocese of Derby, on Tuesday 30th September at 7 pm at St Chad’s Wilne by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Acting Archdeacon of East Derbyshire.
7 August
Amendment
The Revd David Ridley will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hadfield and of the benefice of Glossop, Diocese of Derby, on Saturday 27th September at 3 pm at All Saints Glossop, by the Bishop of Derby assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
31 July
The Revd Canon Rosemary Donovan will be collated as Vicar of the benefice of Melbourne, Ticknall, Smisby & Stanton by Bridge, Diocese of Derby, on Saturday 4th October at 3 pm at St Michael with St Mary’s Melbourne by the Bishop of Derby and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Elliot George will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Belper St Peter, Diocese of Derby, on Wednesday 22nd October at 7 pm at St Peter’s Belper by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales.
The Revd Alan Griggs will be collated as Vicar of the benefice of Derby St Barnabas, Diocese of Derby, on Wednesday 3rd December at 7 pm at St Barnabas’ Derby by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Nicola McNally, interim part-time Priest-in-Charge of the Benefice of Fenny Bentley, Thorpe, Tissington, Parwich and Alsop-en-le-Dale, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed permanently on a full-time basis to the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled. She has also been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the parish of Hartington and the parish of Biggin within the benefice of the White Peak Group. Nicola will be licensed to both roles on Wednesday 3rd September at 7 pm at St Giles’ Hartington by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales. Nicola will resign as interim part-time Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the Benefice of Ashbourne with Mapleton and of the Benefice of Wirksworth with effect from this date.
24 July
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Alasdair (Ally) Kay, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Derby St Bartholomew, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the same benefice by Pastoral Order dated 24th July 2025.
17 July
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Cynthia (Rhoda) Blackwell, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of St John Newbold with Dunston, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled. Rhoda will be instituted on Saturday 23rd August at 3 pm at St John’s Newbold by the Bishop of Derby and inducted by the Archdeacon of East Derbyshire
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Anita Matthews, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Derby St Peter and Christ Church with Holy Trinity, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of same benefice, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
10 July
The Revd Dwayne Engh will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Ashbourne with Mapleton, of the church of Ashbourne St John, of the benefice of Clifton and of the benefice of Norbury with Snelston, Diocese of Derby, on Monday 15th September at 7 pm at St Oswald’s Ashbourne by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd John Ferguson will be instituted and inducted as Vicar of Ripley and licensed as Priest-in-Charge of Swanwick and Pentrich, Diocese of Derby, on Sunday 7th September at 3.30 pm by the Bishop of Repton, assisted by the Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Lisa Taylor, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Hulland, Atlow, Kniveton, Bradley and Hognaston, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed part-time Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Wilne and Draycott with Breaston, in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
4 July
Justin Thacker’s ordination and licensing as Assistant Curate in the benefice of Chesterfield Holy Trinity and Christ Church, Diocese of Derby, which was to take place on Sunday 29th June, was postponed due to his ill health. Justin will now be ordained and licensed on Sunday 27th July at 3.30 pm at Holy Trinity Chesterfield by the Bishop of Repton.
3 July
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Daniel Cooke, Rector of the benefice of Brimington, Diocese of Derby, has, with the Crown’s approval, been appointed Rector of the benefice of Killamarsh and Renishaw in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled. Daniel will continue to hold the Bishop of Derby’s commission as Area Dean of North East Derbyshire alongside this new role. Daniel will be instituted on Tuesday 7th October at 7 pm at St Giles’ Killamarsh by the Bishop of Repton and inducted by the Acting Archdeacon of East Derbyshire.
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Canon Rosemary Donovan, Vicar of the benefice of Christ Church Epsom Common and Area Dean of Epsom, Diocese of Guildford, has been appointed Vicar of the benefice of Melbourne, Ticknall, Smisby & Stanton by Bridge, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd John Ferguson, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Ripley and of the benefice of Swanwick and Pentrich, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of Ripley and Priest-in-Charge of Swanwick and Pentrich, in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Alan Griggs, Agricultural Chaplain, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Vicar of the benefice of Derby St Barnabas, in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Aidan Watson, Strategic Lead for Youth Ministry, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Team Rector of the Keynsham Team Ministry, Diocese of Bath and Wells.
26 June
The farewell services of celebration and thanksgiving for the ministry of the Venerable Karen Hamblin, Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, will take place on Saturday, 13th September at 2.30 pm at St John Walton (S42 7LT) and on Sunday, 14th September, at Derby Cathedral at Evensong 5.15 pm. All welcome. Refreshments will be provided after the services.
The Revd Dr David Mundy, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Buxton with Burbage and King Sterndale (Team Ministry) and Acting Area Dean of Peak, Diocese of Derby, has announced his retirement. David’s last day in post will be 31st July, with his retirement taking effect from 1st August, 2025.
12 June
The Revd Christine (Chris) Nowak will be licensed as Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the benefice of Chapel-en-le-Frith and of the benefice of Chinley with Buxworth and Hayfield, Diocese of Derby, on Monday 14th July 2025 at 7 pm at St Mary’s Church, Chinley by the Bishop of Repton, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
5 June
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dwayne Engh, Ordained Ministries Development Officer and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the Cathedral Church of All Saints Derby, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Ashbourne with Mapleton, of the church of Ashbourne St John, of the benefice of Clifton and of the benefice of Norbury with Snelston, in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Ailsa Hunt, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Kirk Hallam, Diocese of Derby, has also been appointed Assistant Curate of the benefice of West Hallam and Mapperley with Stanley in the same diocese. Ailsa will start in her new post on Saturday, 28th June 2025, the day of her priesting at Derby Cathedral.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd David Ridley, Team Vicar in the benefice of Sittingbourne with Bobbing, Diocese of Canterbury, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hadfield and of the benefice of Glossop, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
30 May
The Revd Geoffrey Borrowdale, Rector of the benefice of Hasland and Vicar of the benefice of Temple Normanton, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of Tividale, St John's Tipton and St Mark's, Ocker Hill, Diocese of Lichfield.
29 May
The Revd Alasdair (Ally) Kay will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge (Vicar-designate) of the benefice of Derby St Bartholomew, Diocese of Derby, on Tuesday 1st July at 7 pm at St Bartholomew’s Derby by the Bishop of Repton, assisted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire.
The Revd Fiona Kouble, Vicar of the benefice of Tideswell, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Assistant Area Dean of Peak Deanery. Fiona started in post on 28th May 2025.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Christine (Chris) Nowak, Assistant Curate (SSM) of the benefice of Glossop, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the benefice of Chapel-en-le-Frith and of the benefice of Chinley with Buxworth and Hayfield in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Revd Alison Redshaw, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Swadlincote and Hartshorne, the benefice of Newhall and the benefice of Gresley, Diocese of Derby, has announced her retirement. Alison’s last day in post will be 30th June, with her retirement taking effect from 1st July 2025.
22 May
The Revd Dr Jocelyn Lewis, Non-stipendiary Minister of Brimington (Derby) 1994-1999, Diocesan Director of Reader Training Derby 1997-2002, Priest-in-Charge of Whittington St Bartholomew 1999-2009, Priest-in-Charge of New Whittington St Barnabas 2004-2009, who retired in 2009 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate 2009-2023, died on Saturday, 10t May 2025.
Her funeral will take place on Thursday, 12 June 2025 at 1pm at Loundsley Green Church (LEP) followed by a private family service of committal at the crematorium.
8 May
The Revd Simon Drew will be licensed as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Chellaston, Diocese of Derby, on Sunday 20th July at 3 pm at St Peter’s Chellaston by the Bishop of Repton assisted by the Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire.
1 May
The Revd Derek Booth, Curate of Holy Cross Woodchurch (Chester) 1962-1965, Curate of St Andrew’s Penrith (Carlisle) 1965-1967, Curate of St Paul’s Tranmere (Chester) 1967- 1969, Curate of St Bartholomew’s Wilmslow 1969-1973, Vicar of All Saints Micklehurst 1973-1997, Curate of Staveley and Barrow Hill (Derby) 1997- 2001, who retired in 2001 and held the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate until 2021, died on Wednesday 16th April 2025. His funeral will take place on Friday 16th May at 11.45 am at St Paul’s Hasland.
The Venerable Karen Hamblin, Archdeacon of East Derbyshire, Diocese of Derby, has announced her retirement. Karen’s last day in post will be 30th September, with her retirement taking effect from 1st October, 2025. Karen will be appointed Archdeacon Emeritus in retirement.
The Revd Dr Paul Moore, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hathersage with Bamford & Derwent and Grindleford, Diocese of Derby, has announced his retirement. Paul’s last day in post will be 31st October, with his retirement taking effect from 1st November 2025.
The Revd Matthew (Matt) Taylor will be licensed as Minister of Trinity Church Buxton, Diocese of Derby, on Tuesday 12th August at 1 pm by the Bishop of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
Hardwick Deanery
The Revd Rachel Williams, Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefice of Bolsover, has also been appointed Area Dean. Rachel started in post on 24th April 2025.
The Revd Imogen Black, Priest-in-Charge of the benefices of Somercotes and of Pinxton, and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the benefices of Alfreton and of Riddings and Ironville, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean. Imogen started in post on 24th April 2025.
The Revd Dr Peter Bold, Rector of the benefice of Ashover and Handley, and Brackenfield with Wessington, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean. Peter started in post on 24th April 2025.
South East Derbyshire Deanery
The Venerable Andrew (Andie) Brown has stepped down as Acting Area Dean. His last day in post was 22nd April 2025. He will continue to hold the Bishop of Derby’s Permission to Officiate. Thank you to Andie for his contribution and commitment in this role over the last year. Our prayers for him and his family as he returns to his retirement.
The Revd Dawn Knight, Assistant Area Dean, has been appointed Area Dean. Dawn started in post on 24th April 2025. She will continue as Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Cotmanhay and Shipley.
The Revd Anne Wilkins, Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Sawley, has also been appointed Assistant Area Dean of South East Derbyshire. Anne started in post on 29th April 2025.
17 April
The Bishop of Derby is delighted to announce that the Revd Simon Drew, Vicar of Middlewich and Byley, Diocese of Chester, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Chellaston, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
