Dean of Coventry to retire after 13 years

The Very Reverend John Witcombe will step down on 31 May

The Dean of Coventry has announced he will retire at the end of May 2026.

The Very Reverend John Witcombe confirmed his retirement on Sunday, having held the position since January 2013 and served in ordained ministry for more than 40 years.

Coventry Cathedral said his achievements included hosting multiple large events during UK City of Culture 2021 and establishing the Investors in Hope initiative, which has raised more than £500,000 to support the cathedral.

Dean Witcombe, who will step down on 31 May, said he had loved his time in the role and leading "this remarkable community", describing it as the most fulfilling period of his career.

He said: "I will treasure the many relationships I have made here in Coventry and across the world, and hope that we will continue to journey together in our shared calling to reconciliation, bringing together the gospel and the arts in a glorious and diverse community."

'Dedicated servant'

The cathedral praised Dean Witcombe's commitment to reconciliation, accessibility and inclusion, which it said had seen thousands of new visitors drawn to the site.

Under his tenure, the arts and events programme was expanded and the cathedral admission charge was removed.

The Bishop of Coventry, the Right Reverend Sophie Jelley, said it was a pleasure to get to know Dean Witcombe during the process of her appointment earlier this year.

"He has been a dedicated servant of our uniquely precious cathedral for the past 12 years," she said.

"I have been inspired by his passion for the ministry of reconciliation which has led to the formation of so many rich partnerships across the world, as well as more locally."