Former Bishop of Gloucester Michael Perham has died aged 69.

In a statement, current Bishop of Gloucester the Right Reverend Rachel Treweek said he died peacefully last night after spending Easter with his family.

He was Bishop of Gloucester between May 2004 and November 2014.

Bishop Michael's other posts included being a board member and on the marketing committee of the Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company.

Bishop Rachel said: "I will always be grateful for Bishop Michael's wisdom, insight and friendship which I first experienced as a member of General Synod.

"It is an immense privilege to have followed in Bishop Michael's footsteps as Bishop of Gloucester and I am deeply aware of the significant impact of his ministry on the lives of individuals and worshipping communities across this diocese.

"Of course, his gifts and ministry have enabled and influenced so much beyond the borders of this diocese, not least in the prayers and liturgies of the Church of England. More recently Bishop Michael has also been an Honorary Assistant Bishop in the dioceses of Bath and Wells, Carlisle, Portsmouth and Salisbury.

"As we give thanks for Bishop Michael we are also deeply thankful for (wife) Alison, and we pray for her and the family that they will know the everlasting arms of God beneath them and around them."

The funeral of Bishop Michael, who had cancer, will be held at Gloucester Cathedral.

The date and details will be made available once they are finalised.