A NEW 'super parish' has been set up in Keighley.

Four historic Church of England parishes have been amalgamated into one.

And the Rev Mike Cansdale has been appointed team rector.

Bishop of Bradford, the Right Rev Toby Howarth, said the move marked an exciting time for the town.

"There is a sense of unity across diverse congregations in Keighley and a shared vision that places engagement with the local communities at the heart of everything," he added.

His Leeds counterpart, the Right Rev Nick Baines, described the initiative as "bold and innovative", and said it would enable the churches to have a greater impact on the town.

The parishes of All Saints and St Andrew's in Keighley, St Mark's at Utley and St Barnabas, Thwaites Brow, have combined.

The ministry team is headed by three full-time Anglican clergy and two Methodist ministers.

An event celebrating the new parish, including the induction of the Rev Cansdale, will be held on September 17.