HE HAS been the head of the area for nearly a decade.

The Dean of Winchester, the Very Reverend James Atwell, will retire in June after 10 years in office.

He started his role on March 25 2006, and many in the community have praised him for the work he has done in his tenure.

The role of Dean, among many things, is to progress Winchester Cathedral and keep it relevant within the area. He recently instigated a major restoration programme at the cathedral which, it is hoped, will bring in more visitors.

He also represents Hampshire at national religious meetings.

“Leaving Winchester will be an enormous wrench,” said Very Rev Atwell.

“It has been a great privilege to serve as Dean of Winchester at a time of real opportunity for Winchester Cathedral.

“There is much development going on both in the life of the cathedral and diocese and, although I am sad to be leaving, I will do so feeling deeply encouraged by the promise and forward momentum that I see all around.”

Rev Atwell’s successor will be chosen by the vice lord-lieutenant of Hampshire, Lindsay Fox. She has been appointed chair of the nomination panel.

Mrs Fox was put forward for the role by the Rev Dakin, and the appointment was confirmed by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The Rt. Rev Tim Dakin, Bishop of Winchester, said: “James has served with distinction as Dean of Winchester for the last decade and I have very much enjoyed working with him.

“During his time as Dean, James has led the Cathedral with dignity and humanity.

“James is loved for his priestly pastoral ministry and I am most grateful for his supportive and wise advice.

“He is widely respected in the City and County and I wish him all the very best in his well-earned retirement later this year.

“The process for nominating the next Dean is now underway and I am delighted that Lindsay Fox, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, has been appointed Chair of the nomination panel”