ARCHDEACON of Wells – the Venerable Anne Gell – is to step down from her role.

After nine years which have seen her take on the roles of Archdeacon of Wells and Residentiary Canon of Wells Cathedral since 2017, Anne will leave in May.

She temporarily stepped back from her archdeaconry role between February 2023 and June 2024 to serve as Acting Dean of Wells.

“I have been in Bath and Wells for nine years, during which there have been many joys and challenges,” she said.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, met and walked alongside some wonderful people, but it feels to be the right time to make some space to hear where God is calling me now, and perhaps to consider aspects of my vocation that I have not recently had chance to explore.”

The Right Revd Michael Beasley, Bishop of Bath and Wells, said she would be missed.

“We are hugely indebted for all that she has given during her time in Bath and Wells,” he added.

“Anne has known, loved and served people in churches and communities across the Wells Archdeaconry.

“She has also undertaken amazing work within Wells Cathedral, especially during the time Anne served as Acting Dean.

“Anne has been a much-loved member of our team and we shall miss her enormously.”

The Very Revd Toby Wright, Dean of Wells, added: “Through her ministry as Residentiary Canon, as well as her time as Acting Dean of Wells, Anne has brought support, wisdom and healing in times of change for many at Wells Cathedral and throughout the wider community. Anne will be much missed in Wells.

“We will always remember with gratitude the strong foundations she has established here, on which we can now build confidently for the future. Our prayers are with Anne and her family as she discerns God’s call to her next chapter.”

Parishioners will have the opportunity to say farewell to Anne at Wells Cathedral Evensong on Sunday, May 10, before she leaves the diocese at the end of that month.

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