THREE years of training to become a lay reader came to fruition earlier this month, when a woman from Lifton was officially licensed by the Bishop of Exeter.

Wendy Roderick will be joining the Tavistock and Gulworthy parish team along with fellow qualified lay reader Sue Tucker.

Originally from South West Wales, Wendy, who spoke only her native tongue until the age of eight, went on to qualify as an English and religious education teacher.

She met her husband, Peter Hake — an avid Plymouth Argyle fan — while teaching at a school in London. Peter is now a science teacher and head of year at Tavistock College, where Wendy herself used to teach English and drama. Both their children —Hannah, 17, and Jonny, 16 — are currently studying there.

Wendy, aged 44, was formerly a vice-principal at a Plymouth school and is now an education advisor with Plymouth Education Authority, working with newly qualified teachers, advising on training, workforce development and the school improvement agenda.

As part of her training to become a lay reader she worked alongside clergy at St Andrews, Whitchurch, where she enjoyed her time and made many friends.

Among her duties as a lay reader in the Tavistock and Gulworthy parish she will be preaching in community services and helping with pastoral and teaching work.

Reflecting on her new role, Wendy said: 'My faith has always been there and part of my life. To quote Nelson Mandela this is about "the opportunity to serve my people".

'Both in my work in education and in the church, for me it is all about serving the community. I especially enjoy helping young people to realise their potential. I also believe in women having a voice and expressing themselves, as well as being part of a community which respects diversity.'

'I am really excited to come to St Eustachius, where I have been made very welcome by the church community.'

Sue Tucker, 61, from Brentor, is a part-time rural advisor for the Diocese of Exeter and joins the Tavistock and Gulworthy team as a lay reader from Roborough.

Both Wendy and Sue were formally welcomed by the parish at the recent harvest festival service.

Michael Brierley, the vicar of Tavistock and Gulworthy parishes, said: 'I am very chuffed that Tavistock is where Wendy is starting out as a lay reader, and I couldn't be more delighted to welcome her to the parish church staff team.  She is a person of exceptional gifts and charisma.

'With her background in education and care, wonderful support from her family, and her youthful vibrancy — she was the youngest person recently admitted as a reader by the bishop of Exeter — she is superbly placed to bring an enormous amount to the community and the church. We are also extremely delighted to welcome Sue to Tavistock, who will bring her rich rural experience to the town and surrounding villages.'