Suffolk’s new bishop said he was “overwhelmed” by the Suffolk Show during his first-ever visit to the premier event.

Ipswich Star: The new bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Rt Rev Martin Seeley with Harry the hippo and Chip KendallThe new bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Rt Rev Martin Seeley with Harry the hippo and Chip Kendall

The Rt Rev Martin Seeley, who will be enthroned as Bishop of the St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese at the cathedral in Bury St Edmunds next month, said he learnt a lot about Suffolk’s community spirit.

He said: “I have never been before and I have been overwhelmed at the scale and incredible quality of all the stands.

“There is a most extraordinary range of stands and stalls and I have been struck by how there is literally something for everyone.

“There is a huge range of people of all ages and backgrounds.

Ipswich Star: The new bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Rt Rev Martin Seeley meets Merrick Pinny with champion Suffolk sheepThe new bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Rt Rev Martin Seeley meets Merrick Pinny with champion Suffolk sheep

“I am looking forward to bringing my family here for day two. I imagine they will find plenty to enjoy, such as the crafts and military displays.

“I have been struck by how open and friendly people are in Suffolk, and I saw this again at the Suffolk Show.”

Rt Rev Seeley was joined by Harry the Hippo, the mascot of St Augustine’s Church in Bucklesham Road, Ipswich in promoting the Church of England at Trinity Park today.

See more from the Suffolk Show here