The Bishop of Warwick is set to retire later this year after more than 18 years in the role.

The Rt Revd John Stroyan will step down on 7 August 2023, after his notice of intention to retire has now been accepted by the Archbishop of Canterbury and King Charles III.

Bishop John was first ordained by the then Bishop of Warwick in 1983, going on to serve as deacon and priest in the parish of St Peter's, Hillfields in Coventry and looking after St Alban's, the neighbouring parish, in its vacancy.

Then after seven years in ministry in Birmingham diocese he moved to north Oxfordshire and as Area Dean for 11 years.

He then returned to Warwickshire to become Bishop of Warwick in 2005, meaning he has spent 22 years in the Coventry Diocese during his time in ministry.

"I have loved my time in the diocese, sharing ministry with many inspirational people both ordained and lay," he said following the announcement.

"I have particularly appreciated the rich mix of parishes, rural, urban and suburban, and the wonderful diversity of communities.

"I have valued also the international dimension of CCN partnerships and our diocesan links with the Holy Land, Kaduna and, most recently, with the Diocese of Kapsabet.

"I am immensely grateful for all that God has given me through so many people in the diocese, in the churches, chaplaincies, schools, Cathedral and beyond. I thank you all for sharing as pilgrims together in our journey of faith."

More information about his replacement will follow.

But the diocese has confirmed that there will be a farewell service held at Holy Trinity, Stratford-upon-Avon on the Wednesday 12 July at 7.30pm, all are welcome to attend.

Bishop Christopher added: "Coventry Diocese has been greatly blessed by the ministry of Bishop John.

"It's here that he began as curate and it's here that he has served so faithfully as Bishop of Warwick over the last 18 years.

"Like countless others, I have richly benefited from Bishop John's support in a myriad of ways and I have been touched by the holy, gracious presence of God through his example of loving ministry and deep prayer.

"It will be hard to say our farewells to Bishop John on 12 July when we gather at Holy Trinity, Stratford but we'll all be comforted by knowing that he'll remain close to us not only in heart but nearby in presence just over the border of the diocese."