A SENIOR clergyman of St Edmundsbury Cathedral has been appointed by the Queen for a role at St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Reverend Canon Michael Hampel, Sub-Dean and Precentor of St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, is to be the next Canon Precentor of St Paul’s in London.

In his new role, which was announced today, the Rev Canon Hampel will be Residentiary Canon with primary responsibility for the liturgical and musical life of the cathedral.

At times the Rev Canon Hampel, who has been Acting Dean at St Edmundsbury Cathedral for the past year, will oversee services of national and international significance.

The Very Reverend Frances Ward, Dean of St Edmundsbury, said she was “delighted” for him.

“He is a priest of flair and creativity, combined with holiness and great organisational ability, and I know he will flourish in this role in the centre of London, particularly with the opportunities that the Olympics and other ceremonial events will offer.

“He will be very much missed at St Edmundsbury Cathedral for his thoughtfulness and kindness, his love of film and Dorothy L Sayers, and his liturgical talent.”

The Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, the Right Reverend Nigel Stock, said: “I count myself fortunate to have had Michael as a colleague twice, once at Durham Cathedral and then here in Suffolk.

“He has always exercised his ministry to the highest of standards, but with a real concern to make the Gospel clear to congregation and visitors.

“In thanking him for all that he has done I would particularly wish to reiterate my gratitude to him for his care and stewardship of the Cathedral during the recent vacancy.

“He goes with the prayers and warmest good wishes of the cathedral community and the Diocese.”

The Rev Canon Hampel, who has worked at St Edmundsbury Cathedral since October 2004, has been Acting Dean there for the past 12 months due to the early retirement on grounds of ill health of the late Dean, the Very Reverend Neil Collings.

During his time in Bury St Edmunds the Rev Canon Hampel has been responsible for the worshipping life of the cathedral from the regular daily services to the impressive acts of worship, including The Office of the Royal Maundy in 2009.

He is also chair of the cathedral’s Arts Committee, founding the Cathedral Film Society in 2006, and is vice chair of governors of King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds.

He will take up his role at St Paul’s in spring next year.