A woman has been appointed as a canon chancellor at Exeter Cathedral for the first time in its 900-year history.
Canon Anna Norman-Walker, a former nurse, told BBC News the Church of England was “on the move” over its position on female clergy.
In November, following intense debate, the church formally adopted legislation to allow female bishops by 2015.
Jonathan Draper, Dean of Exeter Cathedral, said the new canon brought “great gifts and energy”.