THE work of the Church in rural areas will come under the spotlight in the first of the 2015 series of St Wilfrid Lectures.

The Bishop of Worcester, the Right Reverend John Inge, will address the issue at Ripon Cathedral on February 26 at 7.30pm.

The theme of this year’s series is the challenges and opportunities of rural life and Bishop John has a long-standing interest in rural affairs, even serving as president if the Royal Three Counties Show.

The Dean of Ripon, the Very Reverend John Dobson, said: “Bishop John brings a depth of understanding and wealth of experience that bring together clear theological imperatives for mission and some of the challenges facing rural communities in England in 2015.

“I am particularly looking forward to hearing what he has to say about the church being set at the heart of the countryside.”

Entry to the lectures is free, tickets are available from judithbustard@riponcathedral.org.uk or 01765-603462.