The new Rector of Withycombe, the Reverend Robert Sellers, was officially inaugurated at a ceremony at the parish church of St John the Evangelist.

He takes over the mantle from much-loved Tony Oswin, who has retired.

Mr Sellers, 52, and his wife, Marlene, who have three grown-up daughters, join the parish after previously serving with the Diocese of Ripon and Leeds in Yorkshire. He has also served in Gloucester and was team vicar in Redruth. He has held the post of Vicar of Devoran and Chaplain to the Bishop of Truro.

He is now the team rector of the parish church of St John the Evangelist, St John in The Wilderness and All Saints’ Church, Exeter Road.

The ceremony was conducted by The Lord Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Michael Langrish, who inducted Mr Sellers into the parish and mission community of Withycombe Raleigh with Exmouth.

Upon leaving the church, the bishop and rector were escorted by the wardens, Gerald Garraway and Anne Hughes.

Mr Sellers said: “I am looking forward to getting to know my parishioners and the wider community.”

Deputy warden Hedley Ritchie said: “The evening went very well and was hugely enjoyable and we welcome Father Robert to the parish.”