A FORMER Rector of Hatherleigh is to become the next Bishop of Crediton.

The Rev Nick McKinnel, 58, has been the Rector of the Minster Church of St Andrew in Plymouth since 1994. Before that he spent seven years as the Rector of Hatherleigh, Meeth, Exbourne and Jacobstowe.

Mr McKinnel was brought up in Bradninch and after studying law at Cambridge, worked for the development agency Tear Fund. After ordination he served a curacy in Hammersmith before becoming the Anglican Chaplain to Liverpool University.

The Bishop of Exeter, the Rt Rev Michael Langrish, said: 'Nick has had a distinguished ministry in this diocese already, most recently as Team Rector of St Andrew's Plymouth, which recently became Plymouth Minster under his leadership.

'Nick will now be able to bring his wide knowledge of Devon to bear on this larger scale. He is a team player of enormous integrity and warmth who will enjoy getting alongside people in their lives and ministry and share God's love with all those whom he meets.'

Mr McKinnel said: 'I am delighted to be taking on this new role and to follow the ministry of Bishop Bob Evens. I especially look forward to getting to know the clergy and congregations in this part of the diocese. The church has so much to contribute to the life of a community, and I shall enjoy playing my part in supporting that mission.'

Nick is married to Jan, who has worked as a health visitor in Plymouth, and they have four children. He enjoys walking, sport and the theatre.

He will be consecrated as a bishop in Southwark Cathedral in November, and will be living in Tiverton.