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06 March 2012

New Dean of St Paul’s announced

The Dean of Bradford, the Very Revd David Ison, has today been named as the new Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral.

His appointment follows the resignation of the former dean, the Very Revd Graeme Paul Knowles, on 31 October 2011, who felt his position had become “untenable” after Occupy protestors made their camp outside the church in the heart of the City.

Upon his resignation, he said: "I hope and pray that under new leadership these issues might continue to be addressed and that there might be a swift and peaceful resolution."

Number 10 announced Dr David Ison’s appointment early on Tuesday morning (6 March).

The 57-year-old has been Dean of Bradford since 2005. In that time he has been instrumental in increasing the role of the cathedral in the life of the city and the Diocese of Bradford.  

Prior to that, he was Residentiary Canon at Exeter Cathedral, vicar at Potters Green in the diocese of Coventry and a lecturer at the Church Army Training College in Blackheath.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “My appointment as Dean of St Paul’s has been as unexpected for me as the vacancy itself was unanticipated. The upheavals of the last few months at St Paul’s, and the underlying spiritual, social, economic and political issues which they highlight for our country, are very much on the agenda for the cathedral in London; but they are also issues for people, churches and cathedrals across the country.”

He added: “I have always been clear that I would only leave Bradford for a post which was equally challenging and fulfilling. Having been strongly requested to explore the Church's call to London, I can see how it will make use of my skills and the experience and learning I have had in Bradford and before: the call of the Church fits with my sense of God's call to me. I will go south holding Bradford in my heart: and I will take the perspectives of working in what are considered more marginal areas, in London and the Midlands as well as Yorkshire, into the heart of the capital. It is an exciting and daunting prospect.”

The Reverend Canon Michael Hampel, precenter and canon in residence at St Paul’s, said: “We are delighted that David is coming to be Dean of St Paul’s. He brings with him a wealth of parochial and cathedral experience. The Chapter and the whole cathedral community, with David at the helm, will continue to make St Paul’s a focus for Christian ministry and speak of the many things that matter to people across London and beyond. We greatly look forward to welcoming him among us, together with Hilary and their family.”

His installation as Dean of St Paul’s takes place on 25 May.