The first Bishop of Chelmsford, John Watts-Ditchfield, born 17 September 1861, died 14 July 1923.

He began his service with a Curacy at St Peter Highgate after which he was Vicar of St James-the-Less, Bethnal Green. Following this he was a Lecturer in Pastoral Theology at Cambridge University until his appointment as the inaugural Bishop of Chelmsford.

Although known as a peaceful and measured man who believed that ‘soft answers turn away wrath’ he wasn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers. One of his sayings was “We are too polite in the pulpit.” He was uncomfortable with the trappings of office and worked hard for those who suffered injustice, in particular refugee workers in the East End of London.

His statue looks on at the happenings across Chelmsford Cathedral and today he would have witnessed a whole load of children exploring the Christmas story through drama, craft, art, prayers & stories. A happy day today, with good noises.