THE next Bishop of Bristol has paid a visit to pupils at a primary school in Chippenham.

The Very Revd Vivienne Faul, who is currently Dean of York, gave a special visit to St Peter's C of E Academy where she was shown around the school and spoke to pupils and staff.

She has been appointed Bishop of Bristol by the Queen and will be Consecrated Bishop at a service at St Paul's Cathedral on July 3.

Headteacher Mark Everett, said: "Staff and pupils at St Peter's Primary School in Chippenham were delighted to welcome a very important visitor, the Very Revd Vivienne Faull, the newly appointed Bishop of Bristol who enjoyed a tour of the school and met with children and staff.

"She loved meeting the youngest children who were busy learning in their outdoor area and commented on what a lovely environment we have at St Peter's."

The Very Revd Faul, who was brought up in Bristol, became the first woman to lead a Church of England Cathedral as Provost and then Dean of Leicester in 2000 before becoming Dean of York in 2012.

She said: "This is where my family comes from, and so coming here feels like I am returning home.

"It was 24 years ago that Bristol was the first diocese to ordain women as priests, and I want the Diocese to continue to show that pioneering courage.

"I look forward to leading a church that shows the love of Christ to everyone."