THE Venerable Jonathan Williams, pictured, former team rector of Bassaleg, was installed as Archdeacon of Newport in a service at the city’s cathedral on Sunday.

Fr Jonathan, 52, was ordained in 1986 after training at the College of the Resurrection, Mirfield.

He served his curacy in Gelligaer before moving to Llantarnam where he became a Team Vicar. In 1997 he became vicar of Marshfield.

He has been team rector of Bassaleg since 2000 and was made a Canon of Newport Cathedral in 2007.

Before ordination he did a BSc in economics and accountancy, worked as an ambulance driver and did voluntary work with the Church Army.

He is married with two grown-up children and enjoys singing with Cwmbran Baroque Singers.

Looking forward to his new role, he said: “I hope to be able to support and encourage the clergy and people of our churches as we face many challenges.

“We must always remember that Christians have good news to share and a faith that is welcoming to all.”