A man who has ministered over some of the most turbulent times in Europe is to become the new Bishop of Chichester.

The Queen has approved the nomination of the Right Reverend John Hind, currently Bishop of Europe, who is expected to take up the post by Easter.

He will take over from Dr Eric Kemp, who retires in January.

Bishop John, 55, who is currently based in Gibraltar, has been Bishop of Europe since 1993.

During that time he visited war-torn Yugoslavia on several occasions to work with the Anglican Church.

He said: "There were two things which struck me about my time there.

"Firstly, no matter how dire the situation was, no matter what means of communication were out, we were always able to keep in touch by e-mail.

"The other is the difference in atmosphere there now is in Belgrade since my early visits. There has been a lifting of people's spirits."

When he takes up his new post next year, it will be a true home-coming for Bishop John.

He was Bishop of Horsham for two years from 1991 and before that was principal of Chichester Theological College for nine years.

Married to Janet, a social worker, they have three grown-up sons and two grandchildren.

Bishop John said: "We have lived in Sussex longer than anywhere else.

"I flew in from France last night and hearing about the devastation caused to people's lives and homes by the storms and floods is terrible.

"I shall not make the mistake of thinking that because I have lived here before I know all there is to know about Sussex.

"When I take over from Bishop Eric, I intend to get out and meet as many people in both the east and west of the county as I can.

"I am particularly pleased to be called to be responsible for leading the mission of the Anglican Church in Sussex."