New Archdeacon Of The Isle Of Wight Appointed

The Diocese of Portsmouth has appointed the Ven Barry Dugmore as the new Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight.

Barry, currently Archdeacon Missioner in the Diocese of Coventry, will become the Island’s senior clergyperson, succeeding the Ven Steve Daughtery who stepped down last year. The appointment is subject to DBS clearance.

Although currently serving in Coventry, Barry’s links to the Portsmouth diocese stretch back decades.

He was ordained there in 2001 and previously served in Cowplain and Whiteley.

Earlier in his career, he worked in pharmaceuticals across Hampshire, including regular visits to the Isle of Wight.

Speaking about his appointment, Barry said returning to the diocese feels like “coming home” and described the move as a new season for him and his wife, Suzanne.

He said the Island’s mix of rural, coastal and town communities presents an exciting opportunity for ministry, adding that he is passionate about mission, church growth and working with clergy and lay leaders to help churches flourish.

The Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, said he was “delighted” with the appointment, describing Barry as bringing “rich experience, missional energy and a warm pastoral heart”.

Barry previously served in the Diocese of Exeter, where he led churches and later worked as Mission Enabler.

In Coventry, he has overseen mission and discipleship strategy, helping establish more than 100 new worshipping communities since 2020.

He will be licensed as Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight during Evensong at Portsmouth Cathedral on Sunday 31st May.