New rector looking ahead to new challenge

The Rev Dr David Isiorho has moved to the Loggerheads area, near Market Drayton, to lead the Loggerheads Benefice.

He comes to the parish from Handsworth in Birmingham via Cornwall, where he was responsible for three coastal parishes. He is no stranger to rural ministry, having been a country parson serving seven churches in Peterborough Diocese.

He trained for ministry at Westcott House, Cambridge, and completed his curacy at St Mary’s Abbey, Nuneaton.

Father David, who is 62, was born in Windsor, studied at Liverpool for his first degree and worked as a social worker in London before ordination. He continued to study part-time and completed a Masters degree at Warwick University, followed by a Doctorate at Bradford.

He is a specialist in English ethnicity as well as black theology.

He is married to Linda, who is also a priest, but they don’t work together as the couple say they want to stay married. When they are not working, the Isiorhos can be found in front of the fire enjoying a glass of wine and animated conversation.

They also look after a cat named Sir Micky Mango Socrates.

Father David said: "I'm quite excited, it's a new challenge. It's difficult for everyone given the pandemic and we all need a bit of hope.

"This group of churches is well-established and there's a great bunch of people here. We're all wanting to work together."

The benefice includes St John the Baptist church in Ashley, St Mary's in Mucklestone, St Peter's in Broughton and St Paul's in Croxton.