It is with deep shock and sorrow that we announce the death of Fr Martin Chambers, a priest of Galloway Diocese, and Bishop-elect of Dunkeld Diocese, who was found dead this morning, aged 59.

Fr Chambers was due to be ordained as Bishop of Dunkeld in just 17 days time.

Fr Chambers was educated in the Royal Scots College in Spain, and had  experience in Ecuador as a missionary priest. Various appointments as pastor, school chaplain and diocesan responsibilities in Galloway diocese then followed before his nomination by Pope Francis as Bishop of Dunkeld.

Just last week Fr Martin had travelled to Lourdes ahead of his ordination as a bishop to pray for his new diocese.

Archbishop Nolan said he was shocked and saddened at the news. He added: "Martin's death is a huge loss not only to his own diocese, and the diocese of Dunkeld where he had been appointed bishop, but for the whole Catholic Church in Scotland.

"When I was Bishop of Galloway I knew him well - a great priest, always welcoming, friendly, with a good sense of humour who worked so hard for his people.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family and those whose lives he touched during these years of priesthood."

Our Lady, Queen of priests, pray for him

Requiescat in pace