MEMBERS of the clergy gathered in celebration to witness the induction of a new parish priest.

Father Stephen Pimlott was handed the keys to the tabernacles of St Wulstan and St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic and Holy Family Catholic Churches in a formal ceremony.

Mr Pimlott, who moved to Stourport from his post as Birmingham Univ-ersity chaplain in September, was inducted before clergy from both Catholic and other churches in Wyre Forest.

"It's different because I was a chaplain to a huge institution whereas here it's parochial work," he said.

"I will be carrying out the pastoral work of caring for the people here in the parish and preparing people for baptism, reception into the church and work at St Wulstan's Catholic Primary School."

The 61-year-old will now take charge of services at both St Wulstan's Church, Vale Road, Stourport and Holy Family, High Street, Bewdley, which combine to make up his parish.

"It's a lovely place to come into and there are lots of supportive people here," added Mr Pimlott whose induction took place on January 19, the day of the 11th century Bishop of Worcester, St Wulstan.