IT'S a time for double celebrations at a Mirfield church.

The Vicar of Mirfield and his wife have achieved the rare feat of both becoming rural deans.

The Rev Peter Craig-Wild, 51, is Vicar of Mirfield and priest in charge at Eastthorpe and Upper Hopton.

He has just been appointed Rural Dean of Dewsbury by the Bishop of Wakefield, the Rt Rev Stephen Platten.

His wife, the Rev Dorothy Craig-Wild, is Rural Dean of Birstall.

Mrs Craig-Wild, also 51, is priest in charge of Roberttown and Hartshead.

Mr Craig-Wild said: "Our parishes are right next door to each other.

"As far as I know it is unique to have two rural deans who are married to each other.

"I have no idea how we are going to cope with two of us being rural deans, because there is a lot of work involved."

The rural dean duties will be carried out on top of Mr and Mrs Craig-Wild's existing jobs.

The role involves acting as a link between senior figures in the Diocese of Wakefield and the parishes.

Mr Craig-Wild said: "It is a link role. If the bishop wanted to know more about what was happening in Dewsbury, it would be me he would speak to.

"The bishop consults other members of the clergy before choosing a rural dean, but ultimately it is his choice. I am very honoured by the appointment."