New vicar takes charge at church

A NEW vicar has been inducted at St. Bartholomew and St John’s Church in Great Harwood.

The Rev Graham James Birch was instituted at a special service last week by the Rt Rev Philip, North Bishop of Burnley, and the Ven Mark Ireland, Archdeacon of Blackburn.

The service was enjoyed by parishioners, Graham’s family, and friends from his previous parish in Liverpool. Also in attendance were clergy of the Deanery, the Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn, representatives from the local ministers and Great Harwood community groups.