ELEVEN men and women have been ordained deacons at Winchester Cathedral by the Right Reverend Tim Dakin, the Bishop of Winchester.

The seven women and four men, ranging in age from 27 to 62, bring a huge breadth of background and experience.

The new deacons are: Angie Smith, Winchester, Christ Church; Christine Whitehead, Chandler’s Ford; Jono Harvey, Eastleigh; Jo Mulliner, Lymington; Amy Powis, Shirley; Lerys Campbell, Ringwood; Lee Davies, Andover St Mary; Nicky Davies, Fordingbridge; Rachel Hartland, Old Basing; Rachel Noel, Fordingbridge; Linda Scard, North Hampshire Downs.

Between them, they have a strong track record of public service, working in professions including teaching and nursing before answering the call of God.

The Bishop said: “I am delighted to have welcomed these new members of the clergy this weekend. Deacons take on a particular responsibility to serve the community and reach out to those in need, and play an important part in proclaiming the Gospel to their local communities. They have been called to lead the Church in mission and ministering to the needs and hopes of all people, making the love and transforming power of God visible in the world around them.”