Rev Nigel Cairns has been appointed Dean-elect of St Columb's Cathedral in Londonderry. The 51-year-old native of the Waterside area will also serve as rector of the Templemore and St Augustine's parish grouping.

Cairns left his position as principal of Omagh Integrated Primary School in 2014 to train for Church of Ireland ministry. He became a deacon in 2016 and a priest in 2017.

Before entering ministry, Cairns taught at schools in Limavady, Artigarvan, and Omagh. He qualified as a primary school teacher at Stranmillis University College after education at Lisnagelvin Primary School, Clondermott High School, and Foyle College.

Cairns stated that his teaching experience as a principal equips him for pastoral duties. He noted his familiarity with Londonderry's community dynamics.

He aims to maintain cooperation among Christian denominations in the city. Cairns described ministry as a calling and service beyond employment.

Cairns succeeds Rev Raymond Stewart. Officials expect his installation in summer.