ONE of the region's leading clergymen has resigned from his high-ranking position to return to parish ministry, it has been announced.
The Rt Rev Robert Ladds will see out the year as Bishop of Whitby, before taking up a role as a priest in London.
In a letter to the clergy of the Cleveland Archdeaconry, the 67-year-old wrote: "I have long cherished the hope of returning to parish ministry. I believe the right moment for this has come.
"The Archbishop of York has been very supportive, as arrangements for this move have been considered since I raised its possibility with him, more than six months ago.
"I am deeply grateful to him for such support."
The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, praised the outgoing bishop.
He said: "Bishop Robert has been a faithful during his ministry in the Diocese of York.
"I wish him every blessing as he prepares for the next stage of the ministry."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here