The Bride Valley has welcomed its new rector.

The Reverend Jane Williams was licensed and installed by the Bishop of Sherborne and the Archdeacon of Sherborne at a special service at Burton Bradstock’s St Mary’s Church on July 18.

She was supported by more than 30 priests and was welcomed by children from Thorners Primary School and Burton Bradstock Primary School who sang songs.

The packed congregation included representatives from organisations and businesses throughout the Bride Valley.

This is Jane’s first position as rectorpreviously been an assistant curate at Wareham.

Originally from Pembrokshire, Jane and her husband Nigel settled in Dorset 15 years ago with their three young daughters. As an experienced nurse specialist, she became matron of Swanage and Wareham hospitals.

Following a call to ordination, she trained at Ripton College in Oxfordshire, studying theology, ministry and mission. Jane was ordained at Salisbury Cathedral in 2016.

Jane said she was excited about joining the Bride Valley Benefice and looks forward to getting to know everyone.