The Ven Kelly Betteridge, Archdeacon of Bodmin, will be leaving her post in the autumn to become the new suffragan Bishop of Basingstoke.

The announcement was made by Downing Street today (August 28) following approval of her nomination by HM The King.

Archdeacon Kelly says: “I never imagined I would have the chance to come to the Diocese of Truro, and once here could never envisage being anywhere else. It has been a joy and a privilege to have had the opportunity to work alongside such talented, kind and faith-filled people over the last four years. Which is why it had to be something extraordinary to cause me to leave. There has been a gentle God-nudging I just couldn’t ignore.

“I am sad to be leaving when Bishop David has only recently arrived, and I am very aware he will be a hard act to follow in Basingstoke!

The Rt Revd David Williams, Bishop of Truro, said: “Kelly is wholehearted in her love for God and for the Church.  She has served Truro diocese as a godly and wise senior leader.  She moves to be Bishop of Basingstoke (a role that I know well!) and Kelly will find a warm and prayerful welcome.  She will bring her gifts and experience to both the churches and the communities of North Hampshire – but above all she will bring herself!”

Archdeacon Kelly will be consecrated in October before she is formerly welcomed to Winchester. Kelly added: “I still can’t quite believe the gift and opportunity of being invited to serve in the Diocese of Winchester. It feels wonderful and daunting in equal measure.”

Kelly joined the Diocese of Truro in 2021. She was previously the vicar of St Nicolas Parish Church in Nuneaton and Priest in Charge of St James’ Church, Weddington, and Caldecote.

Farewell service

A farewell service for Archdeacon Kelly will be held at St Petroc’s Church in Bodmin on September 21, at 4pm. All are welcome.