The Very Rev’d Dr Martin Kitchen has today announced he wishes to stand down as Dean of Derby.

Dr Kitchen, whose appointment as Dean of Derby was announced in November 2004, said: “I have enjoyed working with a wide range of people across Derby city and the county of Derbyshire and I recognise the Cathedral has great potential in its mission and ministry. My colleagues have been dedicated and supportive during my time here, but I have felt a growing sense that my future vocation lies elsewhere. I have taken some study leave to reflect on this and that time has only served to confirm this view. The Bishop of Derby has been exceptionally supportive and gracious during this time and I am grateful to him for his friendship and wisdom while we have worked together. Meanwhile, I hope my strengths can be of more benefit to the Church elsewhere.”

Bishop Alastair said: “I will be sorry to see Martin leave us as he has been a valuable and highly committed colleague, but I respect his decision which shows his maturity and courage. With his academic standing and enthusiasm, he is of great value in the Anglican Church and I pray God will lead him into a fulfilling future.”

The Dean will remain on study leave while he takes advice about his future and more news will be announced as it becomes available. The Ven Dr Christopher Cunliffe, Archdeacon of Derby, will be made a Residentiary Canon of the Cathedral and this will enable him to help support the staff and congregation during the interim period.

Meanwhile a review of Derby Cathedral, which has been long-planned, will take place soon, overseen by the Bishop. This will take a detailed look at all operations across the organisation so that proposals can be made about its future strategy.

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