IN AN age-old tradition, dating back to the 1400s, the new Bishop Of Truro tackled the steep incline of Angel Hill in Launceston on August 27 before being welcomed to the town by the mayor, and members of the St Mary Magdalene’s and church choir.

Mayor Cllr Dave Gordon, accompanied by his wife Carole and fellow members of the council, deputy mayor Leighton Penhale, Cllrs Jane Nancarrow, Ian Nolan, Sam Allen and Paula Bullen, welcomed Rev Philip Mounstephen at the peak of Angel Hill by the South Gate.

During his welcome speech, Cllr Gordon explained the history of the event.

He said: “It has long been the custom here in Lanson, the ancient capital of Cornwall, to welcome visitors to our town.

“In ancient times the mayor and corporation, along with the burgesses of the town, met with the Minstrels of St Mary Magdalene at the South Gate to greet important visitors to our town.

“In more recent times there has been a tradition of welcoming each new Bishop of Truro upon his first official visit to Lanson.

“This dates back to June 16, 1440, when Bishop Lacy was travelling here from Exeter. When he was greeted by the Minstrels of St Mary’s at the South Gate he exclaimed, ‘surely ‘twas the angels singing’.”

Speaking directly to Rev Mounstephen, Cllr Gordon said: “The hill you have just walked up has been known as Angel Hill ever since.

“On behalf of the people of Lanson we welcome you today.”

The new Bishop was delighted to also receive a welcome from St Mary Magdalene’s Church choir.

Rev Mounstephen wrote on Twitter following his visit: “Wonderful to be welcomed to Launceston in age-old tradition by the St Mary’s singers — and to launch a new season of mission and ministry in Trigg Major.”

Following the civic welcome the congregation processed to the church where Rev Mounstephen carried out the inauguration of a new ministry.

The licensing and installation of the Rev Dr Peter Knight as priest in charge of Launceston, and of Boyton, North Tamerton, St Giles-on-the-Heath, Werrington and Virginstow — team leader for the Trigg Major conventional district.

For many present, the service marked the close of Rev Andrew Wilson’s previous ministry in the Boyton benefice. He was thanked for all his hard work over the years.