The vicar of Budock Water has been given the honour of becoming rural dean.

Reverend Geoffrey Bennett was selected for the position made vacant by the retirement of Father John Harris.

Bishop of Truro Tim Thornton and the archdeacon of Cornwall Roger Bush officially appointed the new rural dean in a service held at Budock Church last Wednesday.

He will provide an invaluable link between the South Carnmarth clergy and senior members of the Truro diocese.

Rev Bennett is now responsible for the nine parishes of Carnmarth South – Budock, All Saints Falmouth, King Charles the Martyr Falmouth, St Gluvias, Mabe, Mawnan, Flushing, Mylor and Penwerris.

He said: “It’s a great privilege to have been elected to this position. I’m looking forward to supporting the hard work of the clergy people by helping their churches to flourish.

“My priorities now are to look out for the parishes within the deanery and making sure the clergy feel provided for in their ministry.”

Deanery chairman John Hodge added: “The election was a popular decision. The clergy were given the opportunity to put forward their nominations for the new rural dean and Geoffrey was chosen from those candidates by the bishop. The service was well attended by visitors from all his new parishes.”