A packed service took place in St Giles Church, Goodrich on Wednesday during which the Reverend Simon Mondon was installed in his post as vicar to the 5 rural parishes that make up one of the two benefices of the border group of parishes south of Ross-on-Wye. The Reverend Simon's installation was led by the Bishop of Hereford, the Right Reverend Anthony Priddis.

The new vicar will have his work cut out with a large rural parish covering Goodrich, Welsh Bicknor, Llangarron, Llangrove, Marstow, and Welsh Newton with Llanrothal with a population of over two thousand souls to look after.

During the Collation and Induction, the Vicar rang one of the newly refurbished bells, the treble, to mark his possession of the benefice and, as a symbol of his partnership with the people, he was presented with a bible, water, bread and wine by members of the congregation.

Opening the service the Bishop thanked all those who had kept the parishes running smoothly during the year long interregnum. He also thanked the retiring vicar, Tony Kelk for his ministry in the area. In his address The Bishop asked everyone present not to be afraid to seek God both for ourselves and the needs of others.

Following the service, there was a reception at Bishopswood Hall, for parishioners, representatives from the Deanery and organizations within the local community. There was also a big welcome for a party from Simon's last parish who had travelled to the induction from Bridgnorth.

'This is a significant occasion in the worship and life of the five parishes and the new vicar,' said Bishop Anthony. 'I am sure Simon is looking forward to the new challenges the parish will bring.'