Bishop Ken Clarke has been appointed as the new full-time mission director of the South American Mission Society (SAMS) Ireland.

He will take up the post later in the year and continue in his current role as Bishop of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh until the autumn.

Bishop Clarke is staying on over the summer to help with the initiatives taking place in connection to the diocese's theme of mission for 2012.

He said he felt "immensely privileged" to have served as the diocese's bishop for the last 12 years.

"I have found many wonderful people who love their Church. We have a great team of clergy, diocesan staff and hard-working volunteers," he said.

"With my wife Helen, I have experienced love and loyalty in Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh. We are thankful to God for the many friendships made here."

The bishop went on to say that he felt called by God to become more involved in SAMS Ireland and world mission.

"I am keen to develop and deepen links with Anglicans in South America and in other parts of the Anglican Communion.

"The development of leaders and the facilitation of missional opportunities will be amongst my priorities.

"My links with SAMS Ireland stretch over most of my forty years in ordained ministry and I have served as Chairperson since 1993. This new post will be an immense but exciting challenge.’