A NEW Canon Precentor and Sacrist has been installed at Winchester Cathedral following an afternoon evensong.

Reverend Andrew Trenier, former Rector of Chingford, officially joined on Sunday during a traditional service involving the Bishop of Winchester.

The Bishop, Rt. Rev'd Tim Dakin, collated the Precentor designate and then the Dean led him to his stall.

Speaking of the appointment, Andrew said: "I am enormously humbled to be asked to take on this important role at Winchester Cathedral.

"It is a very good time to be arriving with much of the building works coming to completion and the cathedral’s new vision taking place.

"I look forward to joining an excellent team in the new term."

For the last four years, Andrew has been Rector of Chingford, and has co-ordinated a wider Mission Unit in the borough of Waltham Forest.

Previously, he served as Minor Canon of Derby Cathedral.

Andrew will now be responsible for the organisation, development and delivery of the liturgy and music of the cathedral, and also the support of the cathedral’s congregations.

He will also be a member of Chapter, the governing body of the cathedral.

The Dean of Winchester, The Very Revd Catherine Ogle, said: “The Chapter is delighted with Andrew’s appointment and looks forward to welcoming him to the cathedral.

"This is a significant time of growth in cathedral ministry and Andy brings great gifts, experience and skills to the role of Precentor.”

Andrew comes to Winchester with his wife Emma, who is head of programmes at the Church of England’s Foundation of Educational Leadership, their three children, Hugo, Louis, and Maxwell, and their puppy, Cosmo.

The Rt. Rev’d Tim Dakin, Bishop of Winchester, said: “The role of Canon Precentor is such a significant one for the life and mission of the cathedral community.

"I am very pleased to appoint Andrew, and I am sure that he will bring wisdom, experience, and sensitivity to his leadership of cathedral worship, and be a valuable and enthusiastic member of Chapter."