On Tuesday 1st October St Mary's Church was delighted to host the licensing service for Fr Stephen Girling, and to welcome him, his wife Diane and their family to Thorpe.

The service was very well attended and the church was filled with a tremendous atmosphere of welcome and friendship. The Bath Abbey Girls Choir sang beautifully and encouraged the congregation to respond with enthusiasm in the hymns.

Refreshments were served after the service and greatly enjoyed by all who were able to stay and share our fellowship.

We are looking forward to working with Fr Stephen and Diane, and wish them every happiness in their life in Thorpe.

Photo: The Rt Rev'd Paul Davies, Bishop of Dorking, Fr Stephen Girling, and The Venerable Martin Breadmore, Archdeacon of Dorking.