THE Church of England took an important step today when the Reverend Libby Lane was consecrated as its first female Bishop in an historic ceremony at York Minster.

Indeed, it is hard to believe that it has taken until 2015 for the Church to finally recognise that it was so badly out of step.

We understand the importance of tradition and the need to consider the feelings of those who have opposed the move. But, if the Church is to look forwards instead of backwards, if it is to preach about fairness and equality, then the inclusion of women bishops is long overdue.

The Reverend Paul Williamson made his voice of protest heard when the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, asked the congregation if Mrs Lane should be ordained as a bishop.

He stepped forward and shouted: "Not in the Bible."

But it was an isolated voice amid the throng of people happy to see the Church welcome its first female priest.

There will, of course, be other voices of objection and regret beyond the Minster's walls. But there will be many more around the world who will be heard in celebration of a more positive, inclusive and balanced Church.

Today's long-awaited ceremony was watched by Anglican women bishops from the United States, New Zealand, South Africa, Iceland, Sweden, and Germany.

The hope now is that the first breach of the dam opens into a flow of greater equality in the Church of England.