LANCASHIRE’S three Church of England Bishops have welcomed this week’s election of county MP Sir Lindsay Hoyle as Speaker of the House of Commons.

The Rt Revs Julian Henderson (Bishop of Blackburn), Philip North (Bishop of Burnley) and Dr Jill Duff (Bishop of Lancaster) have issued a joint statement congratulating the Chorley MP, son of former Nelson and Colne MP Doug.

It says: “The ancient post of Speaker is vital in the day-to-day management of the House of Commons and we are delighted that ‘one of our own’ has been chosen by his peers.

“Sir Lindsay, well-known for his calm and firm demeanour, will have a crucial role to play in managing the debates that take place on Brexit and the many other important issues of the day.

“He has a warm relationship with churches across his constituency and will be supported by our prayers.”