A NEW vicar has been installed for the Benefice of Sturminster Newton, Hinton St Mary and Lydlinch.

The Bishop and Archbishop of Sherborne were on hand for the induction and installation of the Revd Mary Gubbins at St Mary’s Parish Church, Sturminster Newton, on Tuesday (March 28).

The Revd Gubbins was presented to the Bishop by Robin Gibbs, churchwarden of Hinton St Mary, representing the Benefice Patron, Anthony Pitt-Rivers.

Revd Gubbins comes to Dorset from the Lacock Benefice, where she was a Team Vicar.

She is married to Andrew and they have three adult children.

She said she has a natural curiosity about people and places and is looking forward to getting to know many people in the Benefice and beyond.

The Mayor of Sturminster Newton was also present at the service, organised by the Rural Dean and well attended by the Benefice churches and clergy from the Blackmore Vale Deanery.

Mary was also supported by family and friends from the Lacock and Chippenham area.