THE next Dean of Blackburn has been announced as Canon Peter Howell-Jones.

The 54-year-old dad-of-four is the current Vice-Dean of Chester Cathedral.

The Rev Howell-Jones will succeed The Very Rev Christopher Armstrong and made his first public appearance yesterday at a welcome event at Blackburn Cathedral and he will be installed on March 25.

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In his new role, as well as taking overall charge of the cathedral, the Rev Howell-Jones will be a key member of the Diocesan Bishop’s Leadership Team.

The new dean was chosen via a special appointment panel chaired by Jack Straw, former MP for Blackburn.

Rev Howell-Jones said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility for the wonderful Cathedral in Blackburn.

“I have a real sense of expectation for what will be an exciting new challenge and I am looking forward to starting work.

“I will be sad to say goodbye to some wonderful colleagues and friends at Chester but I’m very much looking forward to exploring how Blackburn Cathedral can continue to develop and live out its aim to be Good News for Lancashire.

“Blackburn Cathedral has a fantastic national and international reputation for the quality of its music and for its inter-faith work – actively promoting good ways of living alongside one another, respecting our differences and working together for the common good.”

Rt Rev Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn, said: “I am delighted to welcome Peter as our next dean and I look forward to working closely with him. He brings a great deal of experience to the role.

“As well as looking forward to a new era under his leadership at Blackburn Cathedral, Peter will also be a key member of the Bishop’s Leadership Team as we prayerfully move forward together as a Diocese with our Vision 2026: Healthy Churches Transforming Communities.”

Acting Dean of Blackburn and Bishop of Burnley, Rt Rev Philip North, said: “Blackburn Cathedral is an important focal point not just for the town of Blackburn itself but for the county as well as the cathedral for Lancashire.

“Since being appointed as acting dean earlier this year I have been amazed and impressed with the hard work and effort put in by the fantastic staff, loyal volunteers and the congregation to support the cathedral and ensure it continues to flourish.

“I am pleased to be handing over to Peter who will bring considerable knowledge and talent to the role.”