The next Archbishop of York was announced today and pledged to bring “hope and unity” to the nation.
There was speculation that the second most-senior job in the Church of England would go to a woman.
But it was revealed today that Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford, will take up the role when Dr John Sentamu stands down in June.
Mr Cottrell who in the past has called on the church to shed its middle-class “Marks & Spencer” image, said he was “humbled and excited” at becoming the 98th Archbishop of York.
He said: “These aren’t just big shoes to fill but a big vision. However, I am not daunted.
"I hope to build on the work of Dr Sentamu and help the church be more effective in bringing hope and unity to our nation.”
He added: “I look forward to being a voice for the North and helping address the discrepancies of wealth and opportunity that too often favour the South.”
