MORE than 250 people filled St Mary's Church in Callington on Sunday evening to celebrate the licensing of Rev Tony Stephens as the new vicar of South Hill with Callington, Stoke Climsland and the two churches of Linkinhorne.

A joyous service took place with the licensing being performed by the Rt Rev Tim Thornton, Bishop of Truro, who also preached.

Music was a notable part of the service with contributions from Callington Community Gospel Choir, the young people from St Mary's and a joint choir formed from all the churches in the new cluster.

A wine reception followed by a buffet supper took place in the town hall afterwards, which gave an opportunity to meet Rev Stephens and his wife Pam informally. A new era has begun for the five churches, who are very much looking forward to the new ministry.

Formally part of the church within Weymouth and Portland for eight years, Mr Stephens said he and his wife were looking forward to being part of these new communities which they could see had many things to offer.

He said: 'I long to meet people, listen and where they are willing, to learn of their hopes, fears, struggles, be it in personal life or work and discern with them where God might already be active or guiding them.

'I'm also aware that across communities the church is already active, helping people in need, supporting community events or simply being a friendly, welcoming presence alongside people as they journey through life.'