The new rector of a parish in Weymouth says he can’t wait to get started.

Earlier this month, the Echo reported how Revd Alasdair Kay has been appointed as the new rector of the parish of Wyke Regis, All Saints Church with St Edmund.

The parish had been in a period of interregnum following news that Revd Deb Smith had been appointed as the new Team Rector of Bridport.

In an interview with the Echo, Revd Kay said he can’t wait to return to the area having spent much of his youth in Weymouth and Portland.

He said: “I am originally from Weymouth and I spent a lot of my childhood in the area. As a young child I lived in Wyke Regis then moved to Bridport before spending most of my teenage years in Lyme Regis.

“I have always had a love for Dorset, it had always been my hope to return to the area. I was quite surprised when some friends said there was a parish coming up in Wyke Regis.

“I’ve got a lot of connections in the area. Some of my friends are already working in Weymouth and my wife’s sister and younger brother live nearby. It’s brilliant to return to what feels like home.”

He said the parish team has been very welcoming to him and his wife.

He explained: “They have all been very lovely and friendly. My wife and I have been bowled over by how kind and supportive people from the church have been. We are looking forward to joining the community, along with our two beagles – Bessie and Patch.”

He added: “I think the first six months will be spent getting to know people in the area and listening to them. Then I will form the church’s vision along with the team who helps to lead the church. It feels like a church where I can be really involved in the local community and that’s the sort of guy I am.”

He will be starting his new appointment in Autumn this year.