Rev Canon Fiona Brampton, one of the first women ordained in the Church of England in 1994, recently joined others for a commemorative service at Ely Cathedral, Cambridgeshire.

The event marked 30 years since the historic ordination and celebrated the progress of female leadership within the Church.

Reflecting on the past, in an interview with the BBC, Rev Brampton recalled the energy of that initial ceremony: "The cathedral was full and buzzing for this special moment," she said.

Despite this milestone, she acknowledged ongoing challenges, noting that some women bishops still face resistance.

Led by Rt Rev Dr Dagmar Winter, East Anglia’s first female bishop, the anniversary service featured the Ely Cathedral Girl Choristers and was marked by a sermon from Canon Jessica Martin.

She emphasised the gratitude owed to the pioneering group of 1994: “Later generations of priests, such as my own, owe that first generation so much.”

Rev Brampton, now leading North Leightonstone Benefice, reflected on her three decades of ministry and paid tribute to St Etheldreda, the abbey’s founder. “She was an amazing saint, princess, and woman,” she said, recognising the enduring inspiration drawn from Etheldreda's leadership.