Birthday celebrations to ‘retired’ priest

When most people are thinking about putting their feet up and relaxing, Fr. Hugh Broad of Quedgeley who celebrates his 80th birthday this week is still working almost round the clock.

You’ll see him either officiating at weddings, baptisms and funerals.

When he’s not doing this, he will either be taking or helping with the weekly church services, visiting residential homes, schools, local parishioners or attending to Cathedral duties where he is Canon.

The local outreach groups Chatterbox and Chit Chat arranged a party for the 80 year old with a two tier cake made by Deb Llewellyn.

Jackie Hall Organiser of Chatterbox and Chit Chat said “Fr. Hugh is amazing for his age. He’s got a very good sense of humour and attends our community sessions most weeks. It’s a good job he is so active given the size of this parish and the demands of the job. Without Fr. Hugh the parish would struggle.’

Fr. John Rector and Parish Priest commented ‘This is just the start of celebrations. On Sunday, St. James’ will be having a little party for Fr. Hugh. He has been a tremendous source of help and support to me and I look forward to sharing in the celebrations with him”.