The new year is set to bring a new beginning for Fowey Parish Church as it celebrates the appointment of a clergy person.

Revd Carol Edleston will take over the reins in March as the Priest for Fowey. Carol is currently a curate in St Austell.

This marks a step in the right direction for the parish, and a strategic appointment, as the parish works towards a new relationship with the parishes of Tywardreath and Golant as envisaged in the deanery plan.

Carol is no stranger to Fowey. Her husband Chris is a ‘Fowey Boy’. In 2025 his family will celebrate the 100thanniversary of his family’s move to Fowey. Carol has also already officiated at a number of large community events in the town in recent months.

“Fowey is where our heart is”

Revd Carol said: “Words can’t express how delighted I was to receive the offer of the position of ‘Priest for Fowey’ from Bishop Hugh. Fowey is where our heart is; we love the people, the town and of course, the church.

“At community events I have received overwhelming kindness. There is no place I would rather serve. The church has already worked on a vision for moving forward which brings St Fimbarrus into the heart of the community and we strongly support this aspiration. Knowing Fowey as I do, I believe this is what the town would like to see.

“This is the beginning of a new chapter”

“This is the beginning of a new chapter in the life of this ancient church, and I sincerely believe it will be a precious one, with people coming together, finding God’s love and peace, and sharing it around … I can’t wait!

“We are incredibly fortunate to have a great deal of talent on our doorstep, and I know that the gifts Revd Shona has, the strong leadership of our Rural Dean, Revd Paul, and the support of the diocese will bring a richness to the work in Fowey, and in turn we will share what we have been given with those around us. There are exciting possibilities ahead.”

Merisa MacInnes, PCC Vice Lay Chair, said: “After years of being a church led by lay volunteers, we are thrilled to have our own named, local priest. Carol is loved and respected by those in church, and the wider community of Fowey. She will be warmly welcomed, and it is an answer to prayer that Carol has such as strong calling to serve as our local priest. She will bring enthusiasm, experience, and new ideas to keep our parish church at the heart of our town.”

The Ven Kelly Betteridge, Archdeacon of Bodmin, said: “I am delighted that someone who knows and loves Fowey and its people, and who is loved by them, will be the new ‘Priest for Fowey’. Carol’s unique understanding of the place, and her vision for the parish church, offers fresh hope after a challenging season. I look forward to seeing the way in which she will use her many gifts and graces to enable the church to flourish and the wider parish to know it has a church of warmth and welcome at the heart of Fowey.”