Before going into the Church, Rosemarie Mallet obtained a PhD in sociology and worked as a senior researcher, honorary lecturer and in the area of BAME Mental Health.

She was ordained in 2004 and served her curacy at Christ Church, Brixton and later became the vicar at St John, Angell Town in the same diocese. In 2013 she became an Honorary Canon of Southwark Cathedral.

She's been congratulated by clergy and local figures in the community.

Rev Mallett has been a member of the General Synod of the Church of England since 2010.

Speaking of her appointment, Rev Mallett said: "I am humbled and excited at taking up this new role and very much look forward to this next stage of my ministry in the Diocese.

"I am looking forward to getting to know Croydon and better understand the context of ministry in a mix of peri-urban and town centre parishes. I hope to be able to fully utilise my experiences of parish ministry and senior leadership to support our parishes and people and work to further the Diocesan vision of generosity, inclusion and mutual commitment as we journey and grow together in the love of Christ."

The Bishop of Southwark, Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, said: "Rosemarie’s work and commitment to the community in Angell Town has been transformational, particularly as a role model to young BAME people in Brixton...her work on community cohesion and combating youth violence is making a difference to the lives of many."

The Bishop of Croydon, Rt Revd Jonathan Clark, said: "We very much look forward to Rosemarie becoming part of the Croydon team and bringing her many gifts and skills to the work of the Archdeaconry. Croydon is a place full of challenge and opportunity, diverse and undergoing significant change."

She will take up her new role in the spring.