FOR sheer exuberance it could not be matched. The inauguration of Dr John Sentamu was unashamedly joyful, from the Sudoku puzzles handed out to keep the waiting congregation amused to the wonderful peal of bells at the end of the service.

This was a day of colour and laughter. The new Archbishop drumming an accompaniment to the energetic African drummers is a sight York will never forget. At points during the service, spontaneous applause broke out. All this came in glorious contrast to the historic surroundings of the Minster.

In his sermon, Dr Sentamu made clear his mission to re-energise the Church of England. He has made a spectacularly successful start.

Updated: 09:26 Thursday, December 01, 2005