MEMBERS and friends from churches in the Camelford and Week St Mary Methodist Circuit gathered at Delabole Methodist church on the first Sunday of the Methodist New Year, Sunday, September 2 to share in a welcome service for two newly appointed people to the circuit.

They were welcoming their new superintendent minister, Rev Linda Barriball, and their church and pastoral worker, Mr Paul Harold.

Rev Linda has come to the circuit from an appointment in Bolton, whilst Paul comes from Liskeard. Together they will pastorally care for 14 churches in the circuit.

The welcome service was led by the chairman of the Cornwall Methodist District, Rev Steven Wild with Miss Helen Hicks and Mr Stuart Biddick providing the music on organ and piano.

The lessons were read by Mrs S Searle, Mrs B Bishop and Mrs G Poorta. Those present were welcomed by Rev Bryan Ede.

Rev Linda and Paul were welcomed to the circuit and area by Mrs S Searle (representing Anglican churches), Mr M Pettit (Catholic churches), Cllr Dominic Fairman (Cornwall Council) and the local preachers of the circuit.

Following the service a salad and sweet lunch was enjoyed by some 120 people, served by members and friends of the Delabole Methodist Church.