A FORMER management consultant, who became a Minister in mid-life, has been welcomed by Methodists in Bromsgrove.

Rev Brian Hunt has followed his calling and moved from Torquay to take over as Superintendent Minister at the Methodist Church and Centre, which recently celebrated 21 years in its Stratford Road home.

The 60-year-old father-of-three only became a minister at the age of 40 after a career as a management consultant in the south west.

"It was something that grew over the years as I found I was doing more and more for the church," he said. "I felt it was something I should be doing. It was difficult at the time for my family but they have always been very supportive."

Mr Hunt and his wife Judith have three grown-up children and one grandson. In the 20 years since he became a minister, they have served in Weymouth and Guernsey, before spending seven years in Torquay.

As he was looking for a change, an opening came up in Bromsgrove with the retirement of Rev Ieuan Johnston to a part-time ministry in Congleton, Cheshire.

"When we visited Bromsgrove, it felt right for us," said Mr Hunt. "This is a community church and it's a real opportunity to be involved in the town. The people here seem to be exceedingly friendly," he added.