DUDLEY’S new bishop has revealed he thinks the job is a daunting prospect but one he is keen to take on.

Revd Canon Graham Usher has been named as the Diocese of Worcester’s latest bishop in a move which will bring the 43-year-old south from his current job.

Revd Usher is currently Rector and Lecturer of Hexham Abbey in the Diocese of Newcastle. Prior to this he worked in inner city Teesside and has also spent time living and working in Ghana, Africa.

He said: “I am honoured, delighted and not a little daunted to have been asked to become the next Bishop of Dudley. I am greatly looking forward to getting to know the people and places of the Black Country and the wider Diocese of Worcester, as well as working with and learning from Bishop John, the clergy and people of the Diocese.

“Together I believe that we have an incredible story to tell as we share the life of Jesus and, in partnership with others, look to ways to daily bring God’s love, justice and peace to the communities we serve.”

Revd Usher, who is married to a doctor and has two children, will be ordained at a service at St Paul’s Cathedral on March 25 and be will begin his ministry in Dudley after Easter.

The Bishop of Worcester, the Rt Revd Dr John Inge, said: “He is an exceptionally able priest who, though relatively young to become a bishop, has very considerable ministerial experience, both rural and urban.

"Before becoming the Rector of Hexham Abbey, a very major parish church which he has led into growth, he ministered to some of the poorest in our country on Teesside.

"Throughout his ministry he has made a significant contribution to the welfare of wider society.”

Revd Usher will take over from Rt Revd David Walker who has moved to a new role in Manchester.