The Reverend Canon Toby Wright has been approved by the King to become the new Dean of Wells. This appointment marks a transition for Revd Wright from the Team Rector of Witney and Honorary Canon of Christ Church, Oxford, to a pivotal role in the Diocese of Bath and Wells, succeeding the Very Reverend Dr John Davies.

Expressing his sentiments on the appointment, Revd Wright said, "I am thrilled, and humbled, to have been invited to come and serve among such a wonderful group of people at Wells Cathedral in this amazing place of prayer which was built to the glory of God.

"The Cathedral has an important role in supporting the mission and ministry of the bishop and of the whole diocese as we live and tell the story of Jesus. I am looking forward to listening with you, as we discern God's call for the future, build a culture of hope and discover afresh God's joy in our lives. As we offer hospitality to all in the name of Jesus Christ, I hope to continue to foster a sense for everyone who comes into contact with the Cathedral that they belong and they matter."

Bishop Michael Beasley of Bath and Wells warmly welcomed the new appointment, stating, "The last year has seen the whole Cathedral community – chapter, staff, volunteers and congregation – working together brilliantly to enable Wells Cathedral to step out onto the next stage of its journey of faith. Toby's appointment will enable us all to take that work forward. The many gifts Toby brings will add wonderfully to all that is already happening through the contributions of so many different people. His arrival will mark a new page in our life together. I'm looking forward with anticipation and excitement towards all that the future will bring."

The Rt Revd Michael Beasley (left) welcomes the new Dean of Wells (Photo: Diocese of Bath and Wells)

Revd Wright's expertise and commitment were also praised by the Rt Revd Gavin Collins, Bishop of Dorchester, who remarked, "Toby is an exceptionally gifted, committed and experienced priest. Throughout his years as Team Rector of Witney, Toby has demonstrated liturgically excellent worship, hospitality, welcome, creative community engagement and fun as the clear hallmarks of his ministry and of the life he has enabled and led across his benefice. I am thrilled and excited for Toby as he moves to this important new post, and thrilled also for the leadership and vitality he will bring to the Cathedral and the Diocese of Bath and Wells in his ministry as Dean."

The Acting Dean of Wells, the Venerable Anne Gell, also commented, "On behalf of the Cathedral Chapter we are delighted that Toby has accepted the invitation to serve here as Dean. This is a wonderful Cathedral to be part of with an historic past and an exciting future. I'm sure I speak for the whole community, here in Wells and across the county and diocese, in welcoming this announcement and looking forward to Toby's arrival."

Revd Wright, who has a distinguished career in the Church of England, will begin his new role with a day in Wells, engaging with the community, staff, and the cathedral school, culminating in attending Evensong at the Cathedral.

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