A VICAR says he is looking forward to exploring the Jurassic Coast as he prepares to take on his new appointment at a Weymouth church.

The Reverend Canon Andrew Gough, presently Vicar of St Ives, will be installed as Vicar of the Parish of Holy Trinity with St Nicholas by the Bishop of Salisbury on April, 3.

A Cornishman by birth, Father Andrew is presently a non-residentiary Canon of Truro Cathedral and has served as a priest in East Sussex, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Devon and Cornwall for more than thirty years.

He said: “I am looking forward to getting to know my way around Weymouth as most of the town is unknown to me. However, I love Dorset very much, with the Jurassic Coast and many other amazing attractions.”

A strong believer in community and inclusivity, he says he encourages people to interpret the Bible in a way which is meaningful to people and situations in today’s world.

“The values of compassion and human dignity are at the heart of the Christian gospel and I will work at Holy Trinity, St Nicholas and in Weymouth as a priest who believes and preaches of a God who welcomes everyone whatever their race, gender, sexuality and faith journey. I understand God as a generous God who celebrates love and life.”

His new appointment will also see him become a foundation governor at Holy Trinity and All Saints Church of England Schools.

A keen musician, Father Andrew, likes worship that reflects the rich heritage of the Church of England.

“My passion is for good choral church music as I believe it lifts worship into heavenly places. We have some of the most wonderful cathedral choirs in England and I would like to see this rekindled in our parish churches.”

Everyone is invited to the service of Installation and Welcome at Holy Trinity Church on Monday, April 3 at 7pm. If you plan to attend please call 01305 778765 to help with seating arrangements.