Dame Sarah is named as Archbishop

THE first woman to be named Archbishop of Canterbury has told of her joy in making history as she paid tribute to those who paved the way for the moment.

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Dame Sarah Mullally - the first female to take the role of top bishop in the Church of England - also acknowledged the challenges ahead due to the “legacy of deep harm and mistrust” she said existed because of past safeguarding failures.

She is the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, having been chosen to succeed Justin Welby after he announced his resignation almost a year ago over failures in handling an abuse scandal.

Dame Sarah's appointment was welcomed by the King and the Prime Minister after she was chosen by a committee following a months-long process.

Currently Bishop of London, she will legally become Archbishop of Canterbury at a ceremony in Canterbury Cathedral in January, followed by a formal enthronement service at a later date where members of the Royal Family are likely to be present.