Downing Street announces Eastbourne vicar as Dean of Exeter Cathedral

The Reverend Arwen Folkes, Vicar of St Mary the Virgin, Eastbourne, has been appointment as Dean of Exeter Cathedral, Downing Street announced this morning.

The Bishop of Lewes and Interim Acting Bishop of Chichester, Will Hazelwood congratulated Arwen, saying: “We will be very sorry to see Arwen leave the diocese, but we are also delighted that the wider Church will benefit from the many gifts she has shown so clearly during her time with us. I know that Arwen will bring to the Cathedral and Diocese of Exeter the same faithfulness, evangelistic flair, compassion and strength of leadership that have characterised her ministry among us. I assure her of our ongoing prayers as she prepares to take up this exciting new calling.”

Arwen was Rector of East Blatchington and Bishopstone from 2019 to 2024, before being appointed Vicar of St Mary’s, Eastbourne, in July 2024. She also serves as Assistant Rural Dean of Eastbourne and Chair of the Vacancy in See Committee, and has played a key role in developing the gifts of lay ministers as part of the lay ministry training team.

Arwen said: “I am genuinely grateful for my time in the Diocese of Chichester. I have learnt and grown so much here, and I am very sad to be leaving St Mary’s parish church and the people of Eastbourne to take up this new calling. I will carry with me many happy memories and a deep sense of gratitude for the privilege of serving in this wonderful diocese.”

Arwen will be installed as the new Dean at Exeter Cathedral on Sunday 9 May 2027.