THE LANDMARK approval of legislation which will allow women to become bishops for the first time has been met with joy in Worcester.

The Anglican General Synod's change to canon law was passed by an overwhelming majority with a simple show of hands at its London meeting.

The change sees the simple addition of a sentence to Canon 33, which reads: "A man or a woman may be consecrated to the office of bishop."

Bishop John has expressed his joy at the historic news.

He said: "I am really delighted that the final hurdle has now been crossed and we can look forward to the appointment of women as bishops within the next few months.

"It is very good news not only for the Church of England but for the nation."

His comments were echoed by The Rev'd Canon Ken Boyce, rector of St Martin's Church, London Road, who said the news was very positive.

"This is very definitely good news for the Church of England.

"It is something that should have come 20 years ago, I think.

"It has been a very slow process but I approve of it very much.

"It will take time before we see a fair representation of women bishops because there has to be the vacancies before they can be filled but we should see the first woman over the next few months, I think."

The Very Rev Dr Jane Hedges, 58, dean of Norwich, is the bookies' favourite to become the first woman bishop.

Rev Canon Boyce said: "I am sure Worcester would be very happy to see a female bishop.

"We have always been in favour of women's ministry but I have to say we have two bishops in Worcester diocese right now and I don't want either to leave.

"I can't see it happening in Worcester for some time but that is not because we wouldn't approve of it happening because we most definitely would."

Rev Dr Rich Johnson, vicar at All Saints Worcester, also said the decision had been long overdue.

"I look forward to the day when we just say bishops rather than men and women bishops.

"It's brilliant news and certainly everyone I have had contact with think it is the right decision.

"Of course, some will have a different theological perspective and I think we must respect their convictions.

"However, we can't let it stop the majority view from being brought to bear."

The General Synod overwhelmingly backed legislation introducing the first women bishops in the Church of England in July and today's vote rubber-stamped the move.

The Archbishop of Canterbury the Most Rev Justin Welby said the church was starting "a completely new phase of our existence".