PEOPLE from across Hampshire and Dorset community gathered in Winchester Cathedral to bid farewell to Bishop of Southampton Right Reverend Dr Jonathan Frost who is heading north to become the next Dean of York.

Bishop Jonathan’s move to York marks the end of eight years’ service in the Diocese of Winchester.

Saturday’s service was attended by 700 guests.

Bishop Jonathan said: “Since 2010 it has been a joy to serve in the Diocese of Winchester and to discern a gracious God at work. I have seen many discover faith in Jesus Christ for the first time, others deepen their commitment to community service, and yet more discover a new sense of vocation in life."

He said his highlights in the role had included being Chair of the Joint Portsmouth and Winchester Diocesan Board of Education which works with 160 church schools and his work with‘Love Southampton’ dealing with food poverty, homelessness and problems faced by older people in the City.

The Right Reverend Tim Dakin, Bishop of Winchester, said: “Jonathan’s contribution to Southampton, and the wider community throughout the Diocese of Winchester, has been exceptional. I have been grateful for his wise counsel and good-humoured support over the last six years.

Bishop Jonathan will be installed as the next Dean of York in York Minister on Saturday 2 February. A process is under way to find the next Bishop of Southampton.

Jonathan is married to Christine, a teacher and therapist in training. They have three grown up children.