Botwine was an 8th-century Northumbrian saint who served as a priest and later as the abbot of Ripon. Historical records, including the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, indicate that he died during the 780s, possibly in 786. Following his passing, the leadership of the Ripon monastery passed to Ealdberht, who was eventually succeeded by Sigered. His life and role within the Northumbrian church are documented through early monastic obits and later hagiographical accounts.
Life and service
As a prominent figure in the Northumbrian church, Botwine held the position of abbot at Ripon. His tenure concluded in the late 780s, a period during which he served as a priest. The succession following his death highlights the continuity of leadership at the monastery, as Ealdberht was elected to take his place before the subsequent arrival of Sigered.
Veneration and relics
Botwine is venerated at both Ripon and Peterborough. According to the writings of Byrhtferth of Ramsey, Archbishop Oswald of York discovered the saint's remains at the Ripon monastery. Oswald subsequently created an ornate reliquary to house these relics alongside those of other holy figures. Additionally, historical evidence suggests that Peterborough Abbey held relics belonging to him during the 12th century.