The Rt Revd Rick Simpson is the current Bishop of Durham. He was installed at Durham Cathedral on 7 June 2026.
Rick has served in the Diocese of Durham since 2006 when he came to be Priest in Charge of St Brandon’s, Brancepeth, helping the church to thrive and develop its mission and the Initial Ministerial Education (IME, Phase 2) Officer for both Newcastle and Durham, supporting curates and training incumbents. He became Archdeacon of Auckland in February 2018. He was a member of the Wilkinson-Jay Response Group, advising on the development of Church of England safeguarding. He served previously in the Diocese of Newcastle where, as Vicar of Holy Trinity Jesmond, he saw the church grow strongly in number and discipleship over ten years.
Rick enjoys the outdoors, especially wildlife photography, playing guitar, sport, films and novels. He is married to Rachel, and they have ten godchildren and one cat.
Bishop of Durham's office:
Bishop’s Chaplain: The Revd Dr Chris Knights
Email: bishop.chaplain@durham.anglican.org Tel: 07486 425069
Contact regarding: Pastoral matters relating to clergy, liturgical arrangements for services the Bishop is involved in, Confirmation services and Overseas Permission to Officiate
Personal Assistant: Mrs Jo Dowsett
Email: jo.dowsett@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (01388) 602 576
Contact regarding: Bishop’s diary and correspondence
Assistant Secretary: Mrs Rachael Cleasby
Email: rachael.cleasby@durham.anglican.org | Tel: (01388) 602 576
Contact regarding: Lay Ministry authorisation renewals, General enquiries
Admin Assistant: Mrs Jane Lintern
Email: jane.lintern@durham.anglican.org Tel: (01388) 602 576
Contact regarding: Permission to Officiate applications and renewals