The Very Reverend Simon Robinson announced as the new Bishop of Warrington

This morning, a Downing Street announcement confirmed that His Majesty the King has approved the nomination of the Dean of Truro, The Very Reverend Simon Robinson, as the next Bishop of Warrington. Dean Simon will consequently step down from his role as Dean of Truro on the 30 April 2026.

Dean Simon joined as Interim Dean of Truro in 2022 and was installed in 2024. During his time in Truro, he has overseen several key developments. These include guiding the cathedral through its transition to registration with the Charity Commission, modernising its governance, and leading the recruitment of a new, dynamic Chapter team to help shape the cathedral’s future life and ministry.

A notable aspect of his tenure has been his inclusive approach to worship, demonstrated most visibly in the introduction of “Carols with Pride” at Christmas. An annual service that brought together members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, and the wider public in a joyful celebration of welcome and belonging.

Another highlight has been the restoration and rededication of St Mary’s Aisle, a historic and much‑loved space within the cathedral. The renewed aisle now provides an enhanced environment for worship, reflection, and the appreciation of the cathedral’s heritage.

A long‑standing public advocate for safeguarding and himself a survivor, will bring his deep commitment to this work into his new role as Bishop of Warrington. As he begins shaping his ministry in the area, he is expected to draw on his wide-ranging experience to support the wider Diocese – not only in safeguarding, but across the many areas of church life that have marked his career and passions.

Throughout his ordained ministry, Simon has played a key role in vocational discernment for clergy and lay leaders, clergy development, and supporting those navigating the pressures of newly ordained life. His strong dedication to clergy wellbeing is anticipated to be warmly received by the newly formed parish of Warrington and the surrounding parishes as they look ahead to a new chapter under his leadership. Simon will be consecrated by the Archbishop of York at York Minster on 30 April, before attending his official Welcome Service at Liverpool Cathedral on 23 May.

The Bishop of Truro, The Right Reverend David Williams said:

“I am delighted that the Church has called Simon to be a Bishop.  Simon came as interim Dean of Truro and has graciously stayed!  In a lifetime of ministry, I have rarely met someone as prayerful as Simon.  He has welcomed Helen and me to Cornwall, through his generous gift of time and counsel.

Simon has been a passionate advocate for the cathedral, which he has often been quoted as saying is a Cathedral for Cornwall. We thank Simon for his service, and we pray for him and wish him all the very best for this next exciting step.”

Reflecting on his forthcoming departure, Dean Simon said:

“I never imagined being the Dean of a cathedral. God surprises us if we allow God to do so. The past three and a half years have been a time of great learning for me, learning about God, about myself, about the life of a cathedral and the complex challenges of the cathedral post-Visitation. 

I am genuinely glad that I came to Truro. I will miss much, most especially praying in the early morning before the doors open, the incredible musical ministry led by our stunning music department and the quiet, faithful ministry of so many colleagues and volunteers who simply love this sacred house of God. I will also miss the many wonderful clergy and church communities that I have visited as the Dean. 

There is much to give thanks to God for here in Cornwall. I leave a changed person, a better person, a better priest, knowing that all I have been blessed with here, good and challenging, will help me in the ministry of being the next Bishop of Warrington.”

Speaking for the Chapter, Rev’d Jeff James Senior Non Executive Member said:

“Simon came to the cathedral at a time of great challenge.  He led the Chapter through the preparation for achieving charitable status and in developing its policy and cultural responses to the Bishop’s Visitation. The momentum for this work has been established and will continue after Simon has moved on to his next calling in ministry. He goes with our grateful thanks and good wishes.

Following Dean Simon’s departure, Bishop David will oversee Sunday services until interim arrangements are confirmed. The cathedral’s clergy, staff, and volunteers will continue their work as usual, ensuring that worship, operations, and community life proceed without interruption.

The whole cathedral team joins in wishing Dean Simon well as he prepares to take up his new role.

Further details about the process for appointing the next Dean of Truro will be shared in due course. General FAQs here. 

Visit the Liverpool Diocese Website to read more about his appointment