THE Queen has appointed the Venerable Rachel Treweek, Archdeacon of Hackney in the Diocese of London, as the next Bishop of Gloucester.

The announcement was made by the Prime Minister's office at 10am today. 

Rachel Treweek will be the first female Diocesan Bishop in the Church of England following legislation passed last year enabling women as Bishops.

Speaking at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester following the announcement Rachel Treweek said: “It is an immense joy and privilege to be appointed as the Bishop of Gloucester.

"I am surprised and, I have to admit, even a little daunted by the prospect, but my overwhelming feeling is one of excitement to be coming to join with others in sharing the love of Jesus Christ with the people of this diocese.

“I am looking forward to encouraging Christians to speak out with confidence about their faith and the good news that the Gospel brings. It will be my privilege to work with churches as we connect with people, wherever they are and whatever their concerns.

"My calling to the role of bishop has been shaped by human encounter. I believe profoundly that relationship is at the heart of who God is. I have been with people through the joys and pains of their lives and it is these experiences that I will reflect upon as I take up this new role.”

Rachel Treweek began her day at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester as part of a tour of the Diocese of Gloucester.

Later in the morning she will visit All Saints’ Academy in Cheltenham, to meet students and teachers.

In the afternoon she will meet patients, staff and volunteers at Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice in Coleford.

Her final meeting will be with prisoners and staff of Eastwood Park Women’s Prison. She will end the day in prayer at Gloucester Cathedral with people of the diocese.

The Venerable Rachel Treweek will be formally enthroned at Gloucester Cathedral later this year.