THE Diocese of St Davids is delighted to announce the appointment of Rev’d Canon Leigh Richardson as the new Archdeacon of St Davids, following an open and transparent selection process, with the appointment made by the Bishop of St Davids, the Rt Rev’d Dorrien Davies.

Canon Leigh, who grew up in St Davids and has served in ministry across the Diocese for almost three decades, brings a wealth of experience in parish ministry, education, chaplaincy and cathedral life to his new role.

Born in Liverpool but raised in St Davids, Leigh was educated at Ysgol Dewi Sant and served as a chorister at St Davids Cathedral. Following a career in primary education, he trained for ordained ministry at St Michael's College, Llandaff, and Cardiff University, before being ordained at St Davids Cathedral in 1997.

His ministry has included serving at St David's Church, Abergwili, St Peter's Church, Carmarthen, pioneering further education chaplaincy at Coleg Sir Gâr, and holding the positions of Rector of St Peter's and Area Dean of Carmarthen.

He also served as a chaplain in the Army Reserve, including an operational deployment to Iraq in 2007, before retiring from military service in 2022.

In 2018, Leigh returned to St Davids Cathedral as Sub-Dean and Canon Residentiary, subsequently taking responsibility for the Cathedral's liturgy and music. He currently serves as Acting Precentor and Diocesan Director of Ordinands, supporting those exploring a calling to ordained ministry.

Leigh is married to Christa, a Welsh-medium primary school headteacher, and they have four daughters. Away from his ministry, he enjoys music, singing, walking, local history, family holidays and cooking.

Bishop Dorrien said: "I am absolutely delighted that Leigh has accepted the invitation to become our new Archdeacon of St Davids.

"Throughout his ministry, Leigh has demonstrated a deep commitment to the Church, its people and the communities we are called to serve. His considerable experience, pastoral understanding and knowledge of our Diocese will be invaluable as we continue to develop our mission and ministry.

"Having grown up in St Davids, and now returning to serve the Archdeaconry in this important leadership role, this is a particularly special appointment. I very much look forward to working alongside Leigh and ask everyone across the Diocese to keep him and his family in their prayers as he begins this new chapter."

Speaking following his appointment, Canon Leigh said he is “deeply honoured” and excited by the opportunity to support clergy, congregations and communities in his new role.

“Having grown up here, sung as a chorister in the Cathedral and later been ordained here, St Davids has always held a very special place in my heart.

"The Church has an important part to play in the life of our communities, and I look forward to working with Bishop Dorrien and colleagues across the Archdeaconry as we seek to strengthen our mission, encourage growth and share the love of Christ.

"I am grateful for the trust placed in me and would ask for your prayers as I take on this new responsibility."