IT WAS the first time Mrs Jan Orchard led a service at Bridgerule Chapel on Sunday, February 4, and she based her talk and hymn selection on the theme of ‘Love’.

It was an apt theme with St Valentine’s Day fast approaching.

Jan, and her husband Ray, took up residence in Bridgerule in October 2014 after relocating from Leicestershire.

Jan had previously been a local preacher for ten years, after her initial three-year training period, and for many years prior to that she had led services at a local Baptist church. Ray has also acted as a churchwarden.

Not only are Jan and Ray members of the Tamarside Singers but they are also regular members of the St Bridget’s Church congregation and Bridgerule village coffee mornings.

Jan’s first service was well received by the congregation and it is hoped he will continue to be an integral member of the church.