Judi Hayward, a regular worshipper at St Giles Church, Matlock and Lay Chair of the Wirksworth deanery, was made a Lay Canon of Derby Cathedral last night (1st June).

She was joined by family and friends for the special service in the Cathedral.

Cathedral statutes make provision for the Bishop, in consultation with the Dean, to appoint up to 8 Lay Canons to join the Honorary Canons in what is known as the “College of Canons”.

This ensures the College has wide experience of the outside world.

The Archdeacon of Derby, Christopher Cunliffe, who is Acting Dean, said today: "We are delighted Judi has accepted the Bishop's invitation and we have absolutely no doubt that she will add a great deal as a valued member of the Diocesan family."

Lay Canons are provided with special robes, which were presented to Judi yesterday.

Derby Cathedral exercises a wide and varied ministry in both the City and across the Diocese and is looking forward to welcoming its new Dean, Jeffrey Cuttell, in the autumn.