William Middleton (or William de Middleton; died 31 August or 1 September 1288) was a medieval Bishop of Norwich.
Life Middleton began his career as a clerk in the Jewish exchequer in 1265. He was given custody of the rolls in 1276, and in 1277 was at the French royal court.Pegues "Clericus in Legal Administration" English Historical Review p. 548 He was an official of Canterbury when he was appointed Archdeacon of Canterbury by Archbishop Robert Kilwardby in October 1275. He may also have held a prebend in the diocese of London.British History Online Archdeacons of Canterbury accessed on 29 October 2007
Middleton was elected on 24 February 1278 and was consecrated on 29 May 1278. He was enthroned at Norwich Cathedral on 27 November 1278.British History Online Bishops of Norwich accessed on 29 October 2007 He continued to work on royal administrative business after his election and consecration.
In July 1287 Middleton was appointed to the offices of Seneschal of Gascony and Lieutenant of the Duchy of Aquitaine."Principal Office Holders in the Duchy" and "King's Lieutenants in the Duchy (1278–1453)", The Gascon Rolls Project (1317–1468). He died 31 August or 1 September 1288.Fryde, et al. Handbook of British Chronology p. 261
Citations
References British History Online Archdeacons of Canterbury accessed on 29 October 2007 British History Online Bishops of Norwich accessed on 29 October 2007