BISHOP Michael, the recently installed 80th Bishop of Bath and Wells, is to become a patron of Somerset Day.

The Rt Rev Michael Beasley is already familiar with the county as his wife Lizzie is from a Somerset farming family and the two have joined in many aspects of Somerset life, including walking in the beautiful countryside.

Prior to his being interviewed for the role of Bishop of Bath and Wells, the couple undertook a 60-mile walk around the county and on the morning of his installation he travelled from Bath Abbey back to Wells, using a variety of forms of transport, meeting people from all walks of Somerset life along the way.

Commenting on becoming a Somerset Day patron, Bishop Michael said: “I’m thrilled to be here in Somerset and to be able to see and celebrate so many different aspects of our life together.

"Somerset Day is a brilliant way for us to give thanks for so much that’s good in our county. I’m very much looking forward to supporting its work."

Bishop Michael joins existing Somerset Day Patrons Annie Maw; the Duke of Somerset; the Rt Revd Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton; Michael Eavis; Clinton Rogers; and Edward Bayntun-Coward.

Somerset Day founder Nigel Muers-Raby said: "We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Bishop Michael as a patron.

"He shares our passion in his desire to support Somerset’s communities, organisations and independent businesses.

"We are confident his passion for his wife’s home county will inspire others to celebrate all we have to offer in Somerset."

Somerset Day is celebrated on the second Saturday in May.