First ever female Dean of Lichfield appointed

The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, left, said she was "beyond delighted" at her appointment

King Charles has approved the appointment of the first ever female Dean of Lichfield.

The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, an assistant bishop at the Diocese of Lichfield, will be installed in the role on 21 September, having served as interim dean for the past year.

Bishop McFarlane, who was born in Stoke-on-Trent, said she was “beyond delighted” at her historic appointment.

“I was ordained in Lichfield Cathedral 30 years ago and if you had told me then that I’d be returning one day as dean, I would have grinned with utter disbelief,” she said.

She added that despite living in many parts of the country over the years, she felt like she was “coming home”.

“It’s a huge honour to be invited to lead us into an adventurous new chapter in the story of Lichfield,” she said.

The Lord Bishop of Lichfield, the Right Reverend Dr Michael Ipgrave, said Bishop McFarlane’s appointment would be welcomed by staff and visitors.

“Her love for the region shines brightly and her love for the things of God brighter still,” he added.