UPTON'S new Roman Catholic priest is settling into his post at St Joseph's Church.

Father Dominic Round has moved to the parish after 11 years in Redditch. He started in Upton on September 14 and is also responsible for Our Lady and St Alphonsus at Blackmore Park.

The 63-year-old said Upton was very different to his previous area, where he looked after seven churches, four schools and a hospital.

"It's about time to downsize a little in life," he said, adding that his relocation gave him more time to look after his 90-year-old mother, with whom he lives.

A keen rower, Father Dominic has already made contact with Upton Rowing Club and also hopes to indulge his passion for sailing.

He said Upton was "slower" than Redditch, but said he was surprised by how friendly people were.

"People have time to stop and talk. I'm thrilled to be here," he said.