His father helped run the family road haulage business, but was also very proud of his roots as a foundryman in a local iron works.
[1] Herbert was educated at Monmouth School and went on to read Biblical Studies and Philosophy at the University of Wales, Lampeter.
He studied for the ordained ministry at Wells Theological College, and also obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of Bristol.
He was appointed Director of Post-Ordination Training and honorary canon of Guildford Cathedral before becoming Archdeacon of Dorking in 1990.
[3] Herbert became Bishop of St Albans in 1995:[2] he was consecrated a bishop by George Carey, Archbishop of Canterbury, at Southwark Cathedral on 17 November 1995;[4] and was enthroned and installed at St Albans Cathedral on 20 January 1996.