New Archdeacon of Salop is named

The new Archdeacon of Salop has been named.

The Reverend Paul Thomas will take over from the Venerable John Hall, who retired at the end of the year after 12 years as Archdeacon.

Mr Thomas, currently priest in charge at Doxey in Staffordshire, will be officially confirmed in his new role at a service at Lichfield Cathedral on May 29.

The Right Reverend Mark Rylands, Bishop of Shrewsbury, welcomed the appointment: "I am delighted that Paul has been appointed next Archdeacon of Salop.

"He is an experienced parish priest whose service in both rural and urban areas has been greatly valued and appreciated."

Preparing for his new role, Mr Thomas said: "Having worked in the Lichfield Diocese for six years, I have the greatest admiration for so many people, both clergy and lay, who are maintaining their church life against very difficult odds and sharing the love of God with their communities.

"I hope that as an archdeacon, with the wide remit it will give me across Shropshire, that I will be able to make my contribution to that great endeavour."