A new team vicar has been appointed for Ryde, by the Bishop of Portsmouth.

The Rev David Morgan's appointment was announced by the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost.

He will become a familiar face for congregations at All Saints, St John’s and St Michael’s in Ryde, plus Holy Cross, Binstead and St Peter’s, Havenstreet and will have specific responsibility for traditional worship.

He will also be tasked with developing musical expertise.

He was most recently vicar of Newtown, Soberton and Hambledon and before that was a curate at St Faith’s Church, Havant.

He is also the author of a book about faith and mental health, called The Mind’s Empty Tomb, which will be published later this year.

David's wife, the Rev Vickie Morgan, is currently priest-in-charge of Rowlands Castle, Blendworth, Chalton and Idsworth.

David said: "I am looking forward to getting to know a new place and new people, and I was made to feel very welcome when I visited for the appointment process.

"I am delighted to be returning to full time ministry after a short break."

The archdeacon of the Isle of Wight, the Ven Steve Daughtery, said: “This is an exciting time for the churches in Ryde as they seek to work together in this brand new way.

"David’s appointment is a really important one, as we seek to preserve and build on the faithfulness of many years of traditional worship and musical excellence.

"We hope it is just the first stage in the creation of a whole team to serve this area in the best way possible."