A CHURCH has appointed its first woman to the position of bishop.

Rev Canon Anne Dyer has been elected as the new Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney.

She becomes the first woman to take such a post in the Scottish Episcopal Church.

Canon Dyer said: “It will be a privilege to lead the people of this diocese as they continue to make known the love of God to those in their communities and beyond.”

The General Synod of the Scottish Episcopal Church voted to allow women bishops in 2003.

The Most Rev Mark Strange, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, said: “Anne brings with her a wealth of experience.”