A DROITWICH vicar is set to take up a new role building links between churches and communities in Worc-esteshire and Dudley.

Droitwich Spa team ministry rector Rev Doug Chaplin has been made mission development officer for the Diocese of Worcester and will take up the role at the start of the autumn.

Mr Chaplin said he was looking forward to building partnerships between the church and other community groups.

“Throughout the Diocese of Worcester the four values of love, compassion, justice and freedom are being promoted by Bishop John as essential for a church which represents God’s love in the world,” he said.

“The mission development officer post is about encouraging the churches of Worcestershire and Dudley to look outside of the doors of their church and put these values into practice in the communities where they live.

Bishop of Dudley David Walker described it as “a key appointment for the diocese”.

“As a parish priest Doug has led the way in enabling the church and wider community of Droitwich to work together,” he said. “He brings us experience, passion and skills. I am delighted to welcome him into his new role.”

Rev Chaplin will continue his voluntary role training and developing lay ministers in partnership with the Queen’s Theological College in Birmingham.