THE Bishop of Oxford is going to retire later this year, after holding the post for more than seven years.

Bishop John, 66, will retire on October 31, to move to Richmond in north Yorkshire with his wife, Wendy.

He said: “This has been a hugely difficult decision to make, but I believe it is time for a new chapter.

“I do this with very mixed feelings, inevitably. The truth is there’s never a good time to go. But I feel that the diocese is in good heart.”

He said that he wanted to spend more time with his family, and have “a slower pace of ministry”.

It is not yet known when Bishop John’s replacement will be chosen, but Bishop Colin will be acting-Diocesan.