New vicar arrives right on time (From Stroud News and Journal)

New vicar arrives right on time

THE new vicar of Nailsworth has heard all the jokes ever told about birds and worms. He is the Rev Stephen Earley, former lawyer and father of six, who was collated at a special ceremony in Nailsworth last Tuesday. He replaces the Rev David Strong who retired from the parish last October. Around 380 people, including the Bishop of Gloucester and the Archdeacon of Cheltenham, turned up to honour the new arrival at St George's Church. Mr Earley, 54, said: "The place was jam packed. The people of Nailsworth have been very welcoming." No stranger to the Five Valleys, Mr Early was a solicitor with Scott and Co, John Street in Stroud for 15 years and also knows Nailsworth fairly well. "It's a brilliant place. It seems to be thriving," he said. "It has lovely shops, a nice atmosphere and a wonderful church. "My family and I have strong links to the area and it's great to be back." Mr Earley's wife Helen works for the National Blood Service in Gloucester. They have six children aged between 17 and 33 and it was after the birth of their fourth child that Mr Earley decided to go into the church. "It was something I was called to do," he explained. Since he was ordained he has worked at Holy Trinity, Stroud and St Christopher's, Warden Hill in Cheltenham. He takes over the newly united benefice of All Saints', Shortwood and St George's, Nailsworth and also has responsibility for Horsley and Kingscote. Living up to his name, Mr Early will hold Sunday services in Nailsworth at 9.30am.