A NEW Archdeacon has been appointed for the Blackburn Diocese.

Canon John Hawley, 51, is currently Team Rector of Dewsbury, in West Yorkshire, where his responsibilities included taking care of four churches and 23,000 people, including one of the largest concentrations of Muslim people in Western Europe.

The Rt Rev Alan Chesters, the Bishop of Blackburn, said his multicultural experience was important in securing the post.

"This will enable him to appreciate the challenges which the Church faces in urban areas, in which there are other world faith communities," said Bishop Chesters.

"His particular theological tradition will also complement those of the other members of the Bishop's team."

"He will bring much needed experience to the task of Archdeacon."

Canon Hawley said: "I am looking forward to this exciting challenge because I know it will be a big job, and that only by the grace of God that I am going to be able to do it."

Canon Hawley replaces The Venerable Dr John Marsh who quit last September.

An internet child pornography investigation against him was dropped by police.