A FEMALE reverend has been appointed as the new Archdeacon of Southend.

The Rev Mina Smallman was installed into her new role in a special service at Chelmsford Cathedral last night.

Before being ordained, Rev Smallman trained as a drama teacher.

She previously served as a priest at Christ Church on the Thames View estate, Barking.

The Archdeaconry of Southend comprises Southend, Rochford, Basildon, Thurrock and Hadleigh. Rev Smallman succeeds the Venerable David Lowman, who has already been appointed as the first Archdeacon of Chelmsford