BLACKBURN Cathedral has recruited its new director of music from the United States of America.

John Robinson, 36, takes over from Samuel Hudson who has held the post since 2011 and leaves in September.

Mr Robinson is currently Director of Music at St. Paul’s Choir School, Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts and has worked at Canterbury Cathedral.

He will arrive at Lancashire's premier Anglican church in the summer.

Mr Robinson began musical life as a chorister at Hereford Cathedral, where he continued at the Cathedral School.

Following organ scholarships at Canterbury Cathedral and St. John’s College Cambridge, he was assistant director of music at Carlisle and Canterbury Cathedrals.

He has made numerous recordings as organ accompanist, organ soloist, and as choir director.

Mr Robinson said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be taking up the appointment of director of music at Blackburn from September."

The Dean of Blackburn, the Very Reverend Peter Howell-Jones, said: "The Director of Music is a key appointment in the life of any cathedral and I am thrilled that John has accepted our invitation to come to Blackburn.

"He is a gifted musician with significant experience as an organist and choir trainer and we look forward to all that John will bring in helping us to develop the music ministry at Blackburn Cathedral."

Mr Hudson is moving to become organist and director of Music at Worcester Cathedral.