THE Bishop of St Asaph is to take a sabbatical.

The Rt Revd Gregory Cameron, who will have been in post for 10 years in April, will be away from St Asaph between July and November.

The Bishop of St Asaph said: The Archbishop [of Wales] has supported my application to take a sabbatical this year, as not only do I reach my 60th birthday, but it will also be the 10th anniversary of my consecration as Bishop of St Asaph.

"I will therefore be taking the period July to October as a sabbatical, and not accepting engagements in the diocese, other than the Diocesan Conference [in October]."

Bishop Gregory’s plans for his time of absence aren’t finalised but are likely to include time devoted to developing his spiritual life, relaxing with his family and studying, possibly in a theological college overseas.

During the four-month break, the dean of St Asaph Cathedral, the very Reverend Nigel Williams, will become the senior priest in the diocese.

He, along with the three Archdeacons who share in the Bishop’s oversight, will carry out diocesan duties.

Tasks specific to the role of Bishop will take place either before his sabbatical or on his return in November.