Bishop Cassidy (65) was consecrated as the 10th Bishop of Southwell in September 1999 –– becoming the Bishop of Southwell & Nottingham when the name of the diocese was changed in 2005.

Looking back on almost a decade in the job, the bishop told Chad: "It's been a privilege to be in such a great place, Nottinghamshire is a wonderful county and Nottingham is a buzzing city too.

"It's a diocese with a strong focus on mission and an emphasis on sacrificial giving and it has been my privilege to share in the appointment of some marvellous people to key posts over the years."

During his time in the diocese, the bishop has seen greater lay participation in the community of the church and in its leadership.

He praised the development of a global vision with the South African Natal Link and paid tribute to his colleagues in the diocese, saying: "I've never known a harder working senior team; and my ability to survive on a day to day basis has only been possible by having tremendous support from my chaplain, personal assistant and secretary who do so much of the work behind the scenes.

"By next year I will have served 10 years in a demanding job, which has been a great trust and privilege –– but there is a relentlessness about the role.

"I'm conscious that a younger person with new energy will help lead the team in meeting all the challenges arising in the years ahead."

The bishop and his wife Jane will retire to her native Somerset when he steps down on 31st August next year.

Added the bishop: "I am looking forward to being involved with the diocese (Bath & Wells) and parish life as well as some national interests which I will maintain.

"But I am particularly looking forward to giving Jane a little more love, care and attention to compensate for much of my neglect over the years in full-time ministry. I will also be very happy to have more time for the wider family, including my three grandchildren."