A BLAKEDOWN deacon has been ordained priest at a ceremony in Worcester Cathedral.

Diane Cooksey, who serves the parish of Churchill with Blakedown and Broome, is now able to preside at Holy Communion and Eucharist.

She said: “A particular highlight has been working predominantly with the children [and] young people in Blakedown. I am often involved with assemblies at Blakedown CE Primary School. I believe that building relationships with people of all ages is an essential part of ministry.”

The ceremony, presided by the Bishop of Worcester and assisted by the Bishop of Dudley, ordained three deacons and six other priests from across the region.