THE Bishop of Chester has been chosen as Britain's only Anglican representative at a Roman Catholic bishops' convention in Rome.

The Rt Rev Dr Peter Forster was invited by the Archbishop of Canterbury to attend the synod, where he will join more than 200 Catholic bishops from across the world.

The group will spend a month discussing the role of bishops. Their conclusions will be presented in a document for consideration by the Pope.

Last night, Dr Forster said: 'I am absolutely delighted to be asked to join the synod. It is a great honour to be chosen.'

Dr Forster said: 'We will be discussing in general all the questions that arise about the role of the bishop in the Church.

'I am looking forward to gaining an insight into what goes on on the inside, so to speak.

'It will be an exciting and worthwhile opportunity to learn a great deal about the biggest denomination in the Christian world.

'The fact I have been invited to join this synod is an interesting example of the ecumenical spirit that now exists.'