Pope Francis has appointed a new bishop to a Scottish diocese.

Fr William Nolan, 60, will become the new Bishop of Galloway, taking over from Bishop John Cunningham, who has held the post since 2004.

The bishop-elect has been the parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, for two decades and vicar general of the diocese of Motherwell.

Fr Nolan said he was "overawed" to be appointed to the new role.

He said: "I already know some of the clergy and I look forward to working with them and with the people of the diocese to help the faith flourish in the land where Ninian planted the seeds of faith so long ago."

Reflecting on his 20 years in East Kilbride, he added: "I wish to pay tribute to the people of the parish for their kindness and support to me over the years. My move to Galloway is tinged with sadness at leaving Our Lady of Lourdes behind."

Bishop Cunningham welcomed the appointment of his successor.

He said: "I know that he brings with him experience in many pastoral situations, and that this will serve him well as he leads the diocese of Galloway.

"Galloway is a diocese consisting of parishes which are both rural and in large towns, and so Fr Nolan's wide expertise in dealing with people in his parish ministry, and in being able to adapt to different situations, will serve him well."

The official ordination of Fr Nolan will take place at a later date.