The Very Rev Charles Tyrrell, Dean of Nelson’s Christ Church Cathedral, has been appointed Bishop’s Adviser for Care of Older People.

This is a new diocesan initiative and recognises the statistical evidence that older people are the fastest growing section of our population.

Dean Tyrrell, who will become Dean Emeritus, is a former nurse and comes to his new role with over 30 years experience in the pastoral ministry.

During his time at Nelson Cathedral the parish nurse ministry was launched by his wife Elaine and has now become a national element of the Anglican Church’s caring role.

Dean Tyrrell is Patron of the New Zealand Faith Community Nurses Association.

Dean Tyrrell says as Bishop’s Adviser for Care of Older People he will draw on his nursing background and on his years of minsitry.

“It is a very exciting challenge to take on at this stage of my career,” he said. "It will be sad to leave the cathedral after 16 wonderful years, but working as a member of the Bishop's Ministry Team means that I can maintain my contacts with a great group of people.”

In 2006 Dean Tyrrell was appointed as a Companion of the Queen’s Service Order for his services to the community in Nelson.

Dean Tyrrell expects to take up his new position after Easter 2010.