A FORMER Durham University student has returned to the region after a 30-year absence, to take up a key religious position.

The Reverend Canon Martin Clive Warner has been appointed Bishop of Whitby, in succession to the Right Reverend Robert Ladds.

The announcement was made at Middlesbrough College, this morning.

His arrival was watched by the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu.

Canon Warner, 50, said, "I am excited and awed at the prospect of moving to Teesside to be the Bishop of Whitby.

"I look forward to being part of the Archbishop's team, and to working with men and women of this Archdeaconry.

"It was as a student in Durham 30 years ago that I first discovered this to be one of the most varied and beautiful parts of Britain.

"It has everything - stunning countryside, a spectacular coastline and the potential and challenge of a stimulating conurbation on Teesside.

"It is good to be in Middlesbrough College for the announcement of this appointment.

"I hope it makes a clear statement about the priority I would want the Church to attach to young people.

"They deserve our respect and attention at a time when planning a future life is fraught with uncertainty."

Dr Sentamu said: "I am delighted that Canon Warner has been appointed.

"He is a man of great faith and integrity who has a real heart for serving the community.

"I am sure that his passion for helping others will shine through during his time on Teesside."

Canon Warner, who has enjoyed a long and varied career in the church, was appointed as a Residential Canon of St Paul's Cathedral last year.

The new bishop's remit covers the Archdeaconry of Cleveland, which covers an area including Thirsk to the west, Middlesbrough to the north and Pickering to the south, as well as the North York Moors national park.