Veronica James is about to make history at Skipton’s Holy Trinity Church. She is the new rector and is the first woman to hold the position in the church’s 800-year history.

She is expected to be installed later in the summer. Ms James, pictured, who succeeds Canon Adrian Botwright, has been Rector of Guitings and six surrounding parishes and Area Dean of the North Cotswolds since 2010. In 2012 she was made an honorary canon of Gloucester Cathedral.

Jill Wright, churchwarden at Holy Trinity and one of two parish representatives on the interview panel held in April, said: “We are delighted that Veronica James is coming to Skipton.

“She has a wealth of parish and diocesan experience which will be of real value to us and she tells me she is very much looking forward to coming here.

“Coincidentally, like her predecessor Adrian Botwright, she cycles and takes holidays in a motor home!”