THE RT Rev Mark Ashcroft is due to be consecrated Bishop of Bolton by the Archbishop of York at a special service at York Minster today.

Bishop Ashcroft has served as the Archdeacon of Manchester and Residentiary Canon of Manchester Cathedral since 2009.

His appointment follows the retirement of the Rt Rev Chris Edmondson in June.

He said: “I am looking forward to my consecration and am very conscious of the love, prayer and support that surrounds me and my family as we prepare for this special day.

“This is an exciting time for the Diocese of Manchester as we seek to be a transforming Christian presence in the communities we serve.

“I feel both awestruck and energised by the ministry that lies before me to share the good news of Jesus, and to encourage and lead the Church in being a blessing to our communities.

“I already know that I have wonderful colleagues to share this ministry with.”

Bishop Ashcroft will take up his appointment at the end of November and will be welcomed and installed at a ceremony in Manchester Cathedral on Saturday October 22.

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, said: “Mark has a great passion for mission and evangelism which he will continue to build on in his new ministry as Bishop of Bolton.”