A NEW Acting Archdeacon of Cleveland has been appointed by the Archbishop of York.

Reverend Clay Roundtree officially started in the role on Wednesday and will continue to serve as Vicar at St Francis of Assisi in Ingleby Barwick.

The appointment follows the Venerable Sam Rushton becoming Archdeacon of York.

Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York, said: “I am delighted that Clay has accepted this invitation to serve as the acting Archdeacon of Cleveland.

"He is thoroughly grounded in parish ministry and understands the joys and challenges of building the Kingdom of God."

The Revd Clay Roundtree said, “I look forward to working alongside Area Deans and Lay Chairs across the Archdeaconry of Cleveland and expect to learn a great deal from diocesan colleagues who support parishes and deaneries in their mission and ministry.”