The Archbishop of Canterbury yesterday received the Woolf Institute of Abrahamic Faiths ‘Building Bridges Award’.

The award was made in recognition of Dr Rowan Williams' commitment to addressing contemporary cultural and inter faith issues.

The Archbishop received the awardat the Woolf Institute’s fundraising dinner at London’s Middle Temple, hosted by Lord Harry Woolf, Former Lord Chief Justice, and patron and sponsor of the Woolf Institute.

The Archbishop said he was "delighted and very much honoured" to receive the award from the institute, which is dedicated to teaching, research and dialogue in the encounter between Jews, Christians and Muslims.

"[I] do so on behalf of all those who have made possible the various inter faith encounters of recent years in which I have shared – especially my dedicated staff and colleagues," he said.

Dr Edward Kessler, Executive Director of the Woolf Institute praised the Archbishop's commitment to addressing contemporary cultural and inter faith issues, including his 'Presence and Engagement' programme helping parishes and dioceses to engage with other faith communities, and the ‘Building Bridges’ seminars that bring together Christian and Muslim scholars from across the world.

“The values of shared citizenship, tolerance and respect between those of all faiths are a long way from being met in our society," he said.

"The urgency of our work increases. But in figures like the Archbishop, we have hope. Since becoming Archbishop, Dr Williams has shown a real commitment to It is a privilege to be able to honour and thank him in this way.”