The St Albans Bereavement Network (SABN) has announced the appointment of a new chairman.

Departing chairman Dr Michael Elves announced that the Right Reverend John Gladwin has agreed to become the network’s next chairman at the group biennial meeting.

Rev Gladwin will take up his role as SABN chairman from May 2014. He said: "We all need help and support at moments of loss or bereavement.  It is a special delight to be asked to take on this role.  The work of SABN plays a crucial part in the well-being of our community."

Rev Gladwin and his wife Lydia have been involved with the Network since 2011 when Rev Gladwin became a Patron and Mrs Gladwin took on the role of leading the Wheathampstead Bereavement Group. 

Rev Gladwin retired as Bishop of Chelmsford in 2009 following a long career in the Church of England and has had many years of voluntary sector experience including 11 years as the chairman of Christian Aid and most recently, chairman of the National Association of Citizens Advice.