The Rev Ruth Worsley, parish development officer for the Diocese of Southwark in London, is to be the next Archdeacon of Wiltshire.

Mrs Worsley, who is also a chaplain to the Queen, will be responsible to the bishop for the life and work of the parishes in the deaneries across the south of the county.

She will also have additional diocesan-wide responsibilities.

Mrs Worsley was ordained into the Diocese of Southwell and is a former area dean of Nottingham North (2006 to 2008), Nottingham South (2008 to 2010) and Dean of Women’s Ministry (2007 to 2010).

The Bishop of Salisbury, Nicholas Holtam, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Ruth to take up the particular responsibilities associated with being Archdeacon of Wilts.

“She has a welcome blend of parish, deanery and diocesan experience which is just what we need as we continue to develop our sense of renewal in mission.”

Mrs Worsley, 50, is married to Howard, who is also a priest.

They have three sons – Nathanael, Jonathan and Benjamin.

The new Archdeacon said: “I’m delighted to be moving to the wilds of Wiltshire from balmy Bermondsey. I’m looking forward to working with a great bunch of people who are seeking to discover more of God.

“Living in a family of men who are ‘outdoorsy’, I admit I’d rather curl up in front of an open fire with a good book. However, a friend has offered to take me fly fishing!”

Mrs Worsley will take up her post in February.