TEN new Church of England priests were ordained last weekend – and two will serve parishes on Exmoor.

Bishop of Taunton the Rt Rev Ruth Worsley ordained the Rev Ann Gibbs and the Rev Nicola Butt at St Mary Magdalene in Exford – at the first ordination service there for over ten years. The annual summer ordinations are traditionally held in Wells Cathedral.

Nicola ministers in the Exmoor Benefice and Ann in the Benefice of Porlock, Selworthy and Luccombe.

Bishop Ruth said: “It was a delight to ordain Nicola and Ann here where they will minister, amongst the communities they serve.  Today was such a special affirmation of their rural ministry.”

Bishop Ruth and Bishop of Bath and Wells the Rt Rev Peter Hancock also ordained nine deacons – new reverends being ordained for the first time while priests are ordained having served a year of their curacy.