Robert is new Vicar of Read and Simonstone

More than 200 people gathered in Read St John’s CE Church to welcome their new Priest-in-Charge.
By The Newsroom
Published 29th Mar 2015, 15:00 BST
The new vicar of Read and Simonstone, the Rev. Robert Fielding, with his wife Jayne and the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev. Julian Henderson. (s)The new vicar of Read and Simonstone, the Rev. Robert Fielding, with his wife Jayne and the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev. Julian Henderson. (s)
The new vicar of Read and Simonstone, the Rev. Robert Fielding, with his wife Jayne and the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev. Julian Henderson. (s)

The Rev. Robert Fielding was licensed by the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev. Julian Henderson, at a special service attended by parishioners, civic leaders,local clergymen and diocesan officials adding to an exciting atmosphere.

The Mayor and Mayoress of the Ribble Valley, Coun. and Mrs Michael Ranson, headteachers Sally Smith from Simonstone Primary School and David Smith from Read Primary, were among the guests. After the ceremony members of St John’s Mothers’ Union provided a buffet and drinks for the congregation who were able to meet their new incumbent, who succeeds the Rev. Dr Alan Sowerbutts who retired almost a year ago.

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The new priest-in-charge and his wife, Jayne, said they were thrilled to be moving into the vicarage soon with their four children. Mr Fielding said he is looking forward to working with the church members and reaching out to people in the community.

Our picture shows Rev. Fielding and his wife Jayne with the Bishop of Blackburn (right).