A STAR wars fan and Manchester United supporter has been appointed as the new archdeacon of St Asaph.

Along with Barry Wilson, the new archdeacon of Montgomery, and John Lomas, the new archdeacon of Wrexham, reverend Andy Grimwood will take up his new post in October.

The vicar of Rhyl, moved to the Diocese of St Asaph in 2001 - firstly to Rhyl, then to Newtown before returning to Rhyl in 2013. Through his new role, he will cover the Northern coast of the diocese.

The 'shake up' to the diocesan leadership team follows the retirement of two Archdeacons.

The venerable Dr Peter Pike is retiring from his post as archdeacon of Montgomery, and the venerable Bob Griffith is retiring from his archdeacon of Wrexham role.

The leadership team has a responsibility for about 100 clergy, 228 churches, more than 500 lay leaders and 7,000 church members.

The current archdeacon of St Asaph, the venerable John Lomas, will move to take up responsibility for the Archdeaconry of Wrexham.

Revd Grimwood, who has two teenage sons, said: "I’m honoured and humbled to be offered this role. I’m passionate about God and passionate about people and hope to use my previous experience to grow the church here in Wales."

Andy, along with his wife Fran, will move to Caerwys to take up the role of Archdeacon.

The Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd Gregory Cameron, said: "The retirement of two archdeacons this year gives us the opportunity to change the role and responsibilities of archdeacons.

"Originally conceived as the bishop’s fixers, we want our archdeacons to lead the renewal of the Church, and to mentor and lead Mission Areas towards growth.

"The appointments of Barry from the Diocese of Chester and Andy from Rhyl brings different ideas and experiences to the leadership team.

"We look forward to moving ahead with our exciting plans for the diocese."