Church of England data shows 8% of ordinands were BAME last year, up from 4% in 2016

The proportion of people from a black and minority ethnic background training to become Church of England priests has doubled.

Eight per cent of new ordinands – trainee priests – were from a BME background last year, compared with 4% in 2016, according to data published by the C of E on Monday. The change reflects concerted efforts to increase diversity among the clergy.