The Reverend Michael Gobbert has been appointed team rector for the new parish of Upper Skerne, which includes Sedgefield, Bishop Middleham and the Trimdons.

He is currently based in Norton, near Stockton.

He will be moving to the area next month and taking up his duties in December.

Adrian and Helen Thorpe, both priests, are temporary in the parish and will help establish the new team ministry until the Spring.