THE new vicar of Selby Abbey will be the Rev Canon John Weetman, it has been announced.

Mr Weetman, 44, is currently the vicar at St Peter’s Church in Redcar, and a member of the College of Canons at York Minster. He will take up the new post from next year.

John said: “I’m really pleased to be coming to Selby as Vicar of the Abbey. Lots of people have told me that it has a wonderful congregation, and is at the heart of a vibrant and exciting town.

“I was approached by the Bishop of Selby and the Archdeacon of York about taking up the post, and had an informal chat with the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, and they seemed keen for me to take the role.

“My first priority, when I come to Selby, will be to get to know the congregation and the town, and understand how Selby Abbey can best serve its community.

“I’m looking forward to meeting everyone, and working with the excellent team already at the Abbey.”