The next Bishop of Bolton has been named, Downing Street has announced.

Rev Dr Matthew Porter, currently of St Michael-le-Belfrey in York, will be consecrated at York Minster in June 2023.

As sixth Bishop of Bolton, Rev Porter will succeed Rt Rev Mark Ashcroft, who retired last month.

Rev Porter has served in his current post since 2010, and was ordained in the Diocese of Sheffield in 1996.

Last year, he was appointed an Honorary Chaplain to the Queen, and then to King Charles III following the passing of the late monarch.

Alongside the role, he also recently completed doctoral studies in church planting.

He says: “I’m humbled and thrilled to be called to be the next Bishop of Bolton, working with Bishop David and Bishop Mark.

“While sad about leaving The Belfrey in York, I’m coming to the Manchester area in prayerful expectation, excited to be the lead bishop in mission, growth and church planting, and looking forward to serving the people and church of such a fantastic part of the North.”

Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York said: "Having recently spent a few days in the lovely Diocese of Manchester, I have no doubt that Matthew will make a great addition to the team.

“He will bring his experience, passion and expertise in parish development, church planting and mission. But also his prayerful humility and godliness.

“Under his guiding hand the parish of St Michael-le-Belfrey in York has gone from strength to strength, particularly building a powerful and innovative partnership with the diocese to further parish revitalisation.

“As Bishop of Bolton and as part of the leadership team for the Manchester Diocese he will be wise leader, pastor and teacher. We will miss him in York."