THE Gazette caught up with new Bishop of Gloucester Rachel Treweek this morning to talk about her new role.

Here's the full transcript of the interview which took place less than two hours after the announcement:

How does it feel to have been appointed as the new Bishop of Gloucester?

I am overjoyed – if also a little bit surprised and nervous. But it is absolutely wonderful.

How long have you known that you would take the role?

I think it’s been about six weeks. It’s been a fairly short period of time but still difficult to keep it under wraps. All I've wanted to do is tell people the news.

What has the response been like so far?

My phone is going bananas – it’s lovely to hear from people all over the place. I really want to take this opportunity to thank God. It is my role to share his hope and love with people and encourage others to do the same.

What are your plans for Gloucestershire while in the role of bishop?

My number one priority is just to go and listen to people in churches across the diocese. I want to lead a church which communicates with people whoever they are. That’s why I’m so happy about my plans for today – it’s great to be visiting a whole range of different places across the county, and really important to be going around and spreading the message of God’s love.

How to you plan to approach the rural county of Gloucestershire after your previous experience working in London?

I hope I'm coming into the area with fresh eyes and fresh ears and can encourage people who find the area familiar to look at it with fresh eyes and ears as well. It's just about immersing myself in a new experience, similar to when I first arrived in London. 

As the first female diocesan bishop do you see yourself as a representative of other women within the faith?

I see myself as being a bishop the same as with any other bishop. I am really aware that it’s a big decision for the Church of England but feel that this role is a calling for me to serve Jesus – in the same way it would be for a man or a woman. 

The Gazette would like to congratulate Rachael and wish her the very best of luck in her role as Bishop of Gloucester