REV David Widdows has been licensed as the new priest-in-charge for Brompton Ralph, Chipstable with Raddington, Clatworthy, Huish Champflower, Tolland and Wiveliscombe.
The service, held in St Andrew’s Parish Church, Wiveliscombe, was led by the Bishop of Taunton, Peter Maurice, and attended by parishioners from all the churches in the benefice plus clergy from the Tone Deanery.
Leaders of the other churches in Wiveliscombe, together with representatives from Somerset County Council, Taunton Deane Council and Wiveliscombe Parish Council, also formally welcomed Rev Widdows into the community.
Rev Widdows was previously a chaplain at Lee Abbey in Lynton and before that the parish priest of St Michael's, Stoke Gifford.
He said: “Both I and my wife Becky were made so welcome by the church family of the area. I am really looking forward to working with and for the people of the benefice”.
Refreshments for nearly 300 were provided in the church.
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