THE successor to Chagford rector of 16 years Louis Baycock has been chosen as 58-year-old Anthony Geering who will take on a new six-parish benefice.

The new benefice will include the parishes of Chagford, Drewsteignton, Hittisleigh, Spreyton, Gidleigh and Spreyton.

Presently the rector of Crediton and Shobrooke, Rev Geering will assume the post on October 31.

He is married with six children, the youngest of whom is 13, and has worked in a variety of rural setting including New Zealand.

Chagford curate John Withers has been filling in since the retirement of Rev Baycock in January.

The new incumbent will live in Chagford Rectory.