The Reverend Kevin Barnard, Associate Priest of St Luke (Cranham Park) has been appointed Vicar of the Benefice of Swanland.

"Hello to everyone at St Barnabas.

"It’s a pleasure to be able to say I will be joining you soon as your next vicar. I have met a few of you already and look forward to meeting everyone else.

"Little did I know when I was at Hull University studying geography (quite a few years ago!) that I would be returning to the area. Things have changed a little though; I lived in Needler Hall in Cottingham, which has since been demolished and an Aldi built on the site!

"So, what else can I tell you about myself? I was born in Essex and I’ve spent most of my life so far down south. Before I was ordained, I worked as a computer programmer and project manager in London for investment banks and software companies. After training at Ridley Hall in Cambridge I did my curacy in Warwick, and then became a vicar in Kent before moving to my current post of associate minister of St Luke’s church in Cranham.

"I have been married to Carolyn for 35 years. We have 3 grown up children who are all married now and living in different areas of the country. So it will just be us in the vicarage – and Jess the cat. But that means there will be plenty of space to welcome visitors for coffee and cake!

"We are both really looking forward to joining you and getting to know you all as we seek God’s plan together for the next step at St Barnabas.

"Have a great Christmas in Swanland; we can’t wait to join you.

Kevin and Carolyn Barnard

Saltmine Brochure here.

Friday 8th December 2023, 7pm

Adult £10 and Under 16s £5, Family (2+2) £25

To book call (01482) 632941,