THE Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev'd James Newcome, has been named the Queen's new Clerk of the Closet.

The appointment, giving Bishop James the authority to preside over the Queen's Chaplains, was made following an audience with Her Majesty.

The role gives him responsibility for presenting new diocesan bishops to the sovereign when they do homage.

He will also preach annually in the Chapel Royal or at the Queen's Chapel in St James's Palace and examine any theological books to be presented to the sovereign.

The office of Clerk of the Closet dates from 1437 and includes an annual salary of £7.

Bishop James said: “It is an honour to be asked to take on this role and it will be a privilege to support Her Majesty.

“I was surprised and delighted to receive this invitation. I very much look forward to the opportunity it will give me to support my colleagues in the College of Chaplains.”

The College comprises the Clerk of the Closet, the Deputy Clerk of the Closet and 36 Chaplains who preach in the Chapels Royal according to the Rota of Waits.

Bishop James's other duties will include suggesting possible names to the Private Secretary to the Sovereign, should a vacancy occur in the list of Chaplains.

Bishop James replaces the Rt Rev'd Christopher Hill, Bishop of Guildford, as Clerk of the Closet.