THE ARCHDEACON of the Isle of Wight is to take up a new post as a parish priest for the villages of Greatham, Empshott, Hawkley and Priors Dean.

The Ven Peter Sutton, who has been the most senior Church of England priest on the island since 2012, will take up his new role, which is also within the Anglican Diocese of Portsmouth, in September.

He will also retain his other role, in charge of ongoing training for curates within the diocese.

The Ven Peter Sutton was vicar of St Faith’s Church in Lee-on-Solent for 19 years before his appointment to the island. Before that he was a curate in Fareham and Gosport, and chaplain to HMP Haslar.

He said: “It has been a marvellous privilege to serve as Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight. It has been a busy time with many clergy vacancies and other challenges but also great opportunities for new ways of ministry and mission which the new deanery has embraced in a wonderfully positive way.

“To work in such a beautiful part of the country – with a strong community, good friends, colleagues and enthusiastic parishes – has been a great experience, for which I am very thankful.

“After 30 years working in the diocese I am especially pleased my next adventure will also be here and I am looking forward to that and to continue working with our curates.”

The Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Christopher Foster, said: “Since his arrival in November 2012, Peter has wholeheartedly served the Isle of Wight archdeaconry, along with its communities, people and parishes.

“Peter’s new parish role is in this diocese where he has served with distinction for over 30 years.

“I am delighted he is staying among us, continuing in a diocesan role with oversight for curates in training, and he will continue as a canon of the cathedral.”