The Right Reverend Michael Perham, the Bishop of Gloucester, said St Mary's is the first - and likely to be the only - church to become a minster in the Diocese of Gloucester.

BBC: St Matthew's Church, Cheltenham

The chairman of the synod's business committee, the Very Reverend Michael Perham, the Dean of Derby, told the meeting the "time critical element" had disappeared after Dr John's withdrawal and the issue would be better debated next February.

BBC: Protesters led by Peter Tatchell (right)

Others already elected by the House of Bishops to sit on the CNC - effectively removing themselves from the running - include the Bishop of Carlisle, the Right Reverend James Newcome, and the Bishop of Gloucester, the Right Reverend Michael Perham.

BBC: New Archbishop of Canterbury to be chosen