The Bishop of Bath & Wells has said he is "delighted" by the appointment of Dame Sarah Mullally as the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

Bishop Michael was among those tipped as a potential successor to Justin Welby, but praised the decision to appoint Dame Sarah, calling it "wonderful news for the Church of England, and the wider Anglican Communion".

He highlighted her background as England's former Chief Nurse and her experience leading "one of our largest and most complex dioceses" as key strengths she brings to the role.

"Having worked closely with Sarah in her role as lead Bishop for Health I have experienced at first hand Sarah's ability, wisdom and empathy," he said.

He added that her nomination marks a "wonderful milestone" for the Church, referencing the progress since the ordination of women as priests in 1994.

"Now the first woman will serve as Archbishop of Canterbury and her appointment will change our Church and the whole Anglican Communion forever," he said.

Bishop Michael concluded by offering prayers for Dame Sarah, her husband Eamonn and their family as she prepares for the role.

More local stories:

• Wells skatepark project smashes £100k target
• Shepton Mallet mobile phone thefts plunge but town still leads region
• Glastonbury solar farm plan thrown out over flood and ecology concerns

Sign up to our free local newsletter — Our top stories in your inbox every Friday.