New challenge for karate rector

A karate expert rector who’s run the London Marathon is now set to tackle his latest stiff challenge - taking on seven village churches.

Father Aran Beesley is stepping up from being the curate at All Saints’ Church in Stamford to becoming rector of the Uffington group of churches.

And his excited new flock in Barholm, Braceborough, Greatford, Tallington, Uffington, West Deeping and Wilsthorpe cannot wait to welcome their new leader after being without a rector for 16 months.

Carole Martin, acting secretary for the group, said: “Father Aran is a happy, smiley rector.

“He’s a truly inspirational man and he’s going to bring a real buzz to all our congregations.

“We need our own shepherd and Father Aran will be our new guide.”

She said Father Aran will be installed at an installation and induction service at Uffington Church on Monday September 17.

“He has two beautiful children, Honour and Beau, and Honour will give one of the scripture readings - which should be very moving.

“It’s very important to us that we have our own rector.

“We’ve got a very exciting young churchman coming in and I’m Father Aran will encourage more people to go to church,” said Carole.

“He’s lived in the real world doing different jobs but he’s very faith driven and his faith has grown and grown.”

Father Aran, who’s married to Rachael, worked at Walkers Crisps and held a senior role in marketing before joining the church.

“He loves his fly-fishing and canoeing.

“Father Aran also used to play rugby.

“He ran the London Marathon and holds a black belt in karate so he also loves his sport,” said Carole.