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Dr George Carey was the Anglican Church's 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury, a position he enjoyed between 1991 and 2002. Three years before, he was appointed as the Bishop of Bath and Wells, having been principal of Trinity College, Bristol since 1982. Points West's cameras visited Wells, to hear the town crier officially 'proclaim' the news, but for many, Dr Carey's appointment came as a surprise, since he was regarded by some people as lacking the experience needed to justify fully the position of Archbishop of Canterbury. But, even in his short time as Bishop of Bath and Wells, local supporters were in no doubt of his suitability.
 | | Local clergy lend support |
The 1990s were regarded as the Decade of Evangelism and those who supported Dr Carey's evangelical approach to church life were quick to express their delight for his appointment, one even suggested it had come just the right time - saying the Church of England had at last "got it right". Those who had enjoyed Dr Carey's ministry were sorry to see him leave. He was regarded very much as a man of the people. While they might have felt they would be losing a dearly loved Bishop, there was appreciation that the Church of England would be gaining as a whole. As Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey was not without his critics. He worked towards a greater understanding between the faiths. In particular, he strove to develop a better relationship with the Islamic faith and actively encouraged dialogue with Muslim leaders.
 | | Wells' town crier breaks the news |
He fully supported the ordination of women into the priesthood and even accused those who opposed such a move as heretics! In his autobiography, Dr Carey wrote about his meetings with Prince Charles and Camilla Parker-Bowles, which were to cause controversy when the Archbishop made it clear he approved of their marrying. Dr Carey retired as Archbishop of Canterbury on 31 October 2002. He had delayed his retirement after it was rumoured The Queen had persuaded him to stay in post until after her Golden Jubilee celebrations. At the time he stated: "By the end of October I shall have served 11-and-half years in a demanding yet wonderfully absorbing and rewarding post. "I feel certain this will be the right and proper time to stand down. "I look forward to exciting opportunities and challenges in the coming months, and then to fresh ones in the years that follow," he said. - Born on 13 November 1935 in Bow in the East End of London.
- First employed as an office boy with the London Electricity Board.
- At 18 he went on to do National Service in the RAF.
- Graduated with a degree in divinity (BD) from King's College, University of London and the London College of Divinity in 1962. Ordained deacon in the same year.
- In 1982 appointed Principal of Trinity College, Bristol.
- Became Bishop of Bath and Wells early in 1988.
- Enthroned as the 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury on 19 April 1991.
- Remains a supporter of Arsenal Football Club.
- Other interests include reading, walking and listening to music.
- Married Eileen Cunningham Hood in 1960 and has four grown up children and 12 grandchildren.
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