BISHOP June Osborne, the former dean of Salisbury, has become patron of Salisbury-based homeless charity Alabaré.

Alabaré Christian Care and Support says it is delighted to welcome Bishop June Osborne as its patron.

The Bishop of Llandaff will have a focus on supporting Alabaré’s work with homeless and vulnerable Veterans throughout Wales.

Since July 2017, she has served as the Bishop of Llandaff in the Church in Wales. Between 2004 and 2017, she served as the Dean of Salisbury, and was the first woman to head one of England’s medieval cathedrals.

She was confirmed on July 14 and consecrated the 72nd Bishop of Llandaff on July 15, 2017.

Upon her appointment, Bishop June Osborne said: “It’s a very great privilege to take up my new role as patron of Alabaré Christian Care and Support. I have long admired the work Alabaré does amongst those who are most vulnerable, and especially amongst veterans here in Wales. In these days when compassion and generosity are crucial to us supporting our local communities, I hope I can play a small part in strengthening the care which is offered.”

Malcolm Cassells, Alabaré Chairman added: “I am delighted to welcome Bishop June Osborne as a patron of Alabaré. As the Bishop of Llandaff, June is familiar with the work of Alabaré in Wales centred on veterans, and previously, as Dean of Salisbury Cathedral, she was supportive of the work that we do.”

The charity is running a photography competition centred on the theme ‘This is my hope’. All proceeds go towards supporting its work with the homeless and vulnerable.

The competition is now open. The deadline for submissions is August 3.

A selection of the images will feature in a week-long exhibition and 2021 calendar. There is also a top cash prize of £500 and a special category for young people aged under 18 with a £50 gift voucher on offer to the winner.

Go to alabare.co.uk for details.