FIONA Gibson has been confirmed as the next Bishop of Taunton.

Currently the Archdeacon of Ludlow in the Diocese of Hereford, her appointment as the town’s 14th bishop was confirmed by Downing Street this morning.

Speaking in advance of the announcement, she said: “I am absolutely delighted to be coming to Bath and Wells as the next Bishop of Taunton.

“As a child and teenager I visited family friends in Porlock for holidays nearly every year, and have many happy memories of exploring Exmoor and further afield in Somerset.

“To be able to return to such a beautiful place, while serving its people as Bishop of Taunton, is both deeply humbling and a great joy.”

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Before taking on the role, Fiona will first be consecrated as a bishop, which will be followed by her installation as Bishop of Taunton in the Diocese of Bath and Wells, at a service at Wells Cathedral, early next year.

Michael Beasley, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, said: “I am really excited to welcome Fiona’s appointment as the next Bishop of Taunton.

“She has done an outstanding job as the Archdeacon of Ludlow and has a huge amount of expertise that will help us as we seek to grow our church and our increase our work within our communities across Somerset.

“Her rural experience and educational background will, in particular, be a wonderful gift to us.”Born and brought up in London, and having served in towns, cities and in rural locations, Fiona said she was confident her background stood her in good stead for the role in the County Town.

“Having ministered in both urban and very rural settings, I hope this will help me serve its diversity of people – from those in the beautiful city of Bath to the smallest hamlet on Exmoor, those living along the coast and in the towns, and everywhere in between,” she went on.

“I am very much looking forward to coming to learn and to share with Bishop Michael and all God’s people as we seek the paths where God will lead us in the coming years, and live out our common calling to share the timeless truths and hope of the Christian faith in our ever-changing world.”

Fiona was ordained deacon in 2011 and priest in 2012 and served her curacy and first incumbency in the Diocese of St Albans, before her appointment as Archdeacon of Ludlow.

She studied for a BEd (Hons) in History and Education at Homerton College, Cambridge, before becoming a primary school teacher.

However, when the call came, she undertook her theological studies at Oak Hill College, London, and has a MTh in Theological and Pastoral Studies, as well as a PhD in Divinity from the University of Aberdeen, studying for it alongside her ministry in St Albans and Hereford.

Fiona is married to David, who works in financial services, and they have two adult children.

When she’s not working, Fiona enjoys reading, playing board games, listening to podcasts, walking, taking photographs, and wild swimming.