THE Right Reverend Dr John Thomson, Bishop of Selby, returns to Castle Howard to preside and preach at a service of Holy Communion on Sunday.

The Bishop last visited Castle Howard for the licensing of the Yorkshire stately home’s new chaplain, Reverend Anne Freestone.

Anne joined Castle Howard in February from Darlington Education Village, where she taught children with severe and complex special needs.

Since early 2010, Anne has also been an officiating chaplain for the military supporting four different regiments and will continue to work with the armed forces alongside her new role at the stately home.

Anne, who is the first female chaplain to have been appointed to this post, said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve this unique community and am endeavouring to put my stamp on this very special and beautiful place. It is wonderful to once again see the Chapel being used for services of all kind and I am thrilled to be welcoming the Bishop of Selby."

Bishop John said: “I’m looking forward to visiting Castle Howard again and celebrating Holy Communion in the chapel. Attending a service in the chapel is the best way to experience and understand the space; it was built and beautifully decorated to be a place where God is worshipped and honoured. I hope that people who visit Castle Howard, but who might not go to church on a Sunday, will come to the service and feel welcome.”

All are welcome to attend the service, which begins at 10am on Sunday. Refreshments will be served after in the Grecian Hall.

Those attending the service are asked to park in Castle Howard’s main visitor car park before making their way down the drive to the Boar Garden.