A new Interim Dean for Gloucester Cathedral has been announced.

Canon Andrew Braddock will be formally commissioned as part of a service on Wednesday, April 13 in the Lady Chapel.

He will lead the cathedral for the next 12 months, giving spiritual and strategic guidance as it moves into a crucial new period of development.

It follows the departure of The Very Reverend Stephen Lake  who left to become Bishop of Salisbury, after eleven years as Dean of Gloucester. 

During his time as Dean, the cathedral underwent several transformative changes as part of phase one of Project Pilgrim, including the installation of 150 solar panels on the nave roof and the development of the car park into a welcoming green space for all.

He will be consecrated as Bishop of Salisbury on Monday, April 25 at Southwark Cathedral.

Canon Andrew is a familiar face for many, having been Canon Missioner at Gloucester Cathedral for nearly a decade as well as director of mission and ministry at the Diocese of Gloucester.

Canon Andrew said: "It is a great privilege to be asked by Bishop Rachel Treweek to take on the role of Interim Dean. 

"I have been described as the 'Continuity Canon' because I have been part of the cathedral community for over nine years and therefore carry some of the history of how we have grown and developed as a cathedral.

"There has also been a lot of change within the cathedral clergy recently, so my stepping into the role as Interim Dean will help provide continuity, stability and leadership through this period.

"A key part of the role is about ensuring the cathedral remains outward looking, continuing to carry forward positively our relationships, partnerships and patterns of worship so that cathedral life continues to flourish."

The strategic vision for the next ten years at Gloucester Cathedral involves several major projects, including completing phase two of Project Pilgrim, refurbishing the famous organ and securing the future of the cloister.

The cathedral is also currently seeking to appoint a new Canon Chancellor and director of learning and participation.