THE ARCHDEACON of the Isle of Wight is to take up a new post as a parish priest on the mainland after six years as the most senior Church of England priest on the Island.

The Ven Peter Sutton will start his new role as priest for the villages of Greatham and Empshott, with Hawkley and Priors Dean, so will remain within the Anglican Diocese of Portsmouth.

Rt Rev Christopher Foster, the Bishop of Portsmouth, said: "Peter has wholeheartedly served the Isle of Wight archdeaconry, along with its communities, people and parishes.

"He has been a notable and loved pastor to congregations and clergy and I am delighted he is staying among us in the Portsmouth diocese."

The Ven Peter Sutton said: "It has been a marvellous privilege to serve as Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight.

"It has been a busy time with many clergy vacancies and other challenges but also great opportunities for new ways of ministry and mission which the new deanery has embraced in a wonderfully positive way.

"To work in such a beautiful part of the country — with strong community, good friends, colleagues and enthusiastic parishes — has been a great experience, for which I am very thankful."