A VICAR who worked for 20 years in Papa New Guinea has taken over the reins at the United Reform Church,Great Dunmow. David Vincent, 57, moved to the area in December and was formally introduced to townsfolk at a service on Saturday. He has now set his si

A VICAR who worked for 20 years in Papa New Guinea has taken over the reins at the United Reform Church,Great Dunmow.

David Vincent, 57, moved to the area in December and was formally introduced to townsfolk at a service on Saturday.

He has now set his sights on forming a bond with local residents and putting the New Street church back into the heart of the community.

He said: "The church is already very modern and comfortable but I want it to improve even further by building on the events that already take place here. We want to reach outwards to the community and support the town, making this church a place for the whole town to gather."

An experienced vicar of 30 years, Rev Vincent originally came from Sutton in London. After finishing a science degree he decided a career in that field was not the one to take and applied to become a minister abroad.

"The opportunity to minister in Papa New Guinea came up and I jumped at the chance," he said. "It was an amazing experience and gives me a lot in common with Dunmow's mayor who has also spent a lot of time in the south pacific."

He arrived back in the UK 10 years ago to take up a position in Bournemouth, where he built up such affection from his congregation that over 30 arrived from the seaside resort to see him take up his new post.