Bishop Paul Williams inaugurated in official ceremony at Southwell Minster

The 12th Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, Bishop Paul Williams, was inaugurated at a formal service this afternoon.

Following tradition, he knocked three times on the West Door of Southwell Minster before being greeted by the Acting Dean of the Minster, the Rev Nigel Coates.

Bishop Paul was joined by members of the Minster School as he made his way through scores of people before taking part in the enthronement ceremony.

He received his cape, mitre and pastoral staff as he officially took on the role.

The Bishop also heard from representatives of charities Framework ReachUK, and members of Thoresby Pit community as they explained the challenges each faces.

In his opening sermon, he thanked the members of the diocese for the warm welcome he received in the area.

"I want to thank everyone from the diocese for their warm welcome, and for all their prayers and support," he said.

"Since the appointment was announced I've received quite a few cards and comments comparing me to Robin Hood, but I'm not sure I entirely fit the bill."

He also prayed for the people who have been involved in tragedies in the past few days, following attacks in Tunisia, France and Kuwait.

"With the events of the past few days, we need now more than ever to show the warmth and love of the human heart," he said.

Following his sermon, representatives from the Bishop's visit around the diocese brought symbols of their work in daily life to the high altar.

He left the service through the West Door, talking to members of the Diocese in the Minster grounds.