The Rt Rev Graham Usher said it was a "great surprise and incredible honour" to be given the role, just seven years after moving to the county.

He was introduced at the RNAA’s annual general meeting at the Norfolk Showground as a "distinguished public figure and a true friend to the farming community".

Bishop Graham is the Church of England’s lead bishop on the environment, and a vocal campaigner on rural issues in the House of Lords, including highlighting the impact of inheritance tax on family farms and working to protect the county's precious chalk rivers.

He said he is looking forward to "the chance to celebrate our glorious countryside and farming heritage" at this year's Royal Norfolk Show on June 24 and 25.

"Having only lived in the county since 2019, I am conscious that I am very much a newcomer, with plenty still to learn," he said. "So this feels a double honour for someone still learning how to pronounce Wymondham and Happisburgh, and putting straight things that are ‘on the huh’."

The key theme for his presidential tenure is "thriving rural communities".

"When villages have a diversity of ages and backgrounds their schools tend to thrive," said Bishop Graham.

"When rural communities have good internet connection, businesses function well. When there are good transport links, mobility is enhanced. When there is access to shops and GP surgeries and leisure facilities, then wellbeing tends to get better. When nature is being protected and enhanced, there is a benefit to everyone. When there is a church community, a village hall, perhaps a pub or local clubs and societies, people can meet and chat, celebrate and share, and those who are struggling can be supported. Isolation is reduced, and a common sense of purpose is fostered.

"Yet so many of these aspects have been deeply challenged across Norfolk in recent decades.

"I am keen that we address these issues together. Together we can seek solutions for the challenges that our rural communities face."

The bishop also aims to showcase the role played by rural churches and community groups, and has chosen to support Norfolk charities working with homeless people "so that the most vulnerable in our communities can also begin to flourish”.

RNAA chief executive Mark Nicholas welcomed Bishop Graham’s appointment and thanked outgoing president Poul Hovesen for his "hugely successful presidential year".

“As the baton passes from Poul Hovesen to Bishop Graham we can be in no doubt that the association is in a strong position to champion food production, farming and the countryside in Norfolk," he said.

"A staunch supporter of our work since arriving in Norfolk in 2019, Bishop Graham’s vision will enable us to find innovative ways of supporting rural communities and growers and producers across the county."

Former North Norfolk MP and prominent mental health campaigner Sir Norman Lamb was elected as deputy RNAA president.

© Eastern Daily Press