THE Camel-Allen cluster of churches has welcomed its newest vicar, the Rev Angela Cooper, who is looking forward to serving the church people and local communities.

Having already been in her new role for a week, Rev Cooper is determined to serve the church community, as well as the whole parish.

She is making herself available to serve everyone through her services, baptisms, weddings, christenings and more.

Rev Cooper said: “It has been great so far, and it’s been lovely getting to know the people and communities. It’s great to finally be here and get stuck in.”

Rev Cooper has been trying to meet as many local people as possible, through the licensing service that recently took place, as well as through the recent celebrations of the Queen’s 90th birthday and her very first service that took place on Sunday.

The licensing service was held at Lanteglos Church on Monday, June 6. Family and friends from her former churches travelled to the licensing by the Bishop of Truro, the Rt Rev Tim Thornton. They were among a congregation, which included members of the congregations of the churches of St Teath, Delabole, Camelford, Lanteglos and Advent, which make up the Camel-Allen cluster.

Rev Cooper took up the new post after four years as assistant curate at St Just in Roseland and St Mawes.

Born in South Yorkshire, Rev Cooper flew to Thailand at the age of 19 to work with refugees from Cambodia. After years working in refugee camps, she returned to the UK where she spent 13 years in London, compiling a CV, which included care worker for elderly people, parish administrator and funeral arranger. She moved to Cornwall 15 years ago and was ordained in 2012.

Rev Cooper said the events held since her arrival have allowed her to get to know people and the area.

She added: “It’s such a lovely area; it’s much more beautiful than I could have anticipated.

“I want to be a listening ear for those in the area, and I am willing to offer spiritual advice, as this is my area of expertise.

“I’m looking forward to being part of the community life, to be involved with the people, and taking services. It’s still early days, but I really am looking forward to getting to know the people, as well as finding out the needs and hopes of the community.”