AN ANGLICAN theological college has appointed a new warden.

Cranmer Hall, part of St John’s College, at Durham University, has recruited Rev Mark Tanner, a former Durham student with much experience as a parish priest.

Rev Tanner was welcomed by the Very Rev Michael Sadgrove, the Dean of Durham, in a service led by Rt Rev Geoff Pearson, the Bishop of Lancaster, and addressed by Rt Rev John Pritchard, the Bishop of Oxford.

Bishop Pritchard spoke about the importance of the joy of Jesus’ resurrection and said Rev Tanner was a man who brought hope to a needy world.

Rev Professor David Wilkinson, the principal of St John’s College, said: "We are thrilled to be able to welcome Mark to enrich a community where work, worship and fun are held together in the Christian commitment to enjoy life in all its fullness."

Rev Tanner said: "I am deeply grateful for such a delightful welcome and delighted to be joining such a vibrant and diverse community.

"It is a privilege to be called to work with the next generation of church leaders at a time when they have such a vital role both in the church and beyond it, in a society which is searching for security, meaning and hope."