THE Bishop of Exeter has blessed houses at Clovelly as part of a visit to Hartland Peninsula.

The Right Rev Robert Atwell spent three days in the area — his stay was part of nine months the three Anglican bishops in Devon are spending going around the county, listening to people’s views, and sharing their vision for the Church of England.

On Monday, March 13 he visisted Clovelly, where houses were given ribbons to tie on to their front doors if they wanted the Bishop to bless their house.

Bishop Robert did this as he ascended down the cobbled streets in the lantern parade.

The group then met with others at the Red Lion on the quay for a ‘Grill a Bishop’. Bishop Robert was asked about being a monk, becoming a Bishop, and his love of Devon.

There was discussion about the challenges of living in such a rural county, with an aging population and lack of jobs for young people.