ST Boniface Roman Catholic Church in Okehampton and Holy Family Church in Chagford have a new priest, following the departure of Father Peter Morgan.

Father Darline Marianathan, originally from India, is currently studying at Exeter University for a doctorate in psychology.

He has already earned a Bachelor of Philosophy from Suvidya College in Bangalore, a BA at Bangalore University, and a Bachelor of Theology at St Peter's Institute, also in Bangalore.

He has a Masters in applied clinical psychology from Annamalai University and a diploma in family counselling.

He has written books on religion and the teachings of Christ, some in English and some in his native tongue of Tamil. He was also chief editor of the theological magazine 'Eucharist: Rooted in Christ', which was published in 2005.

Father Marianathan was ordinated in January 2006 at St Antony's Church in Melakolakudi, and has served as a priest in parishes in Somerton and Devizes.

He said: 'I am very much looking forward to working in Okehampton. When I discussed the post with the bishop, he informed me what a calm and quiet place Okehampton is, and what a nice place it is.

'I am excited to meet people in the town, and use my experience from Somerton and Devizes during my time in Okehampton.'

Father Marianathan succeeds Father Morgan, who served the two churches for nine years, and has now moved on to the Catholic Church in St Austell.