On 18th September Ashtead's John Watts and George Heywood were given their licences as Readers in the Church of England. The presentation was by John Gladwin, the Bishop of Guildford.

On weekdays George works in the water industry, while John is an architect in Croydon. On Sundays they will lead some of the services. They may also be trained to take funerals. "As Readers we're ordinary people doing ordinary jobs", said George, "and I'll take any opportunity to mention sewage in a sermon!"

Part of John's work as a Reader will be as a chaplain's assistant at Princess Alice Hospice in Esher. "Standing at the front on a Sunday is a daunting prospect for me", said John, "but I'm inspired by the example of the other Ashtead Readers - and I hope I can add my own special contribution."

Watch out for John and George at our services this Christmas. Christmas wishes them all the best in their new role.

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