A Message from our new Church Warden

Hi to the St. Andrew’s Family. I am the newest in your long line of Churchwardens.

Sue and I with our daughter Kimberley moved from Luton to Bedford 25 years ago. I was born in Lincolnshire moving to Luton at 18 months old when my father left the Royal Air Force.

2022 bought about a desire to find a Church in Bedford. We were aware of St. Andrews and took the plunge in early December 2022 receiving such a warm welcome, we stayed. Thank-you to all who made us feel very quickly part of the St. Andrews Family.

As you are aware Sue was commissioned as your Anna Chaplin in 2025, she continues to enjoy and grow in her ministry.

I have recently retired. All my 52-year working life has been in the Motor Industry. Starting as a Technical Apprentice at Vauxhall Motors Luton at 16 years old, finishing as a Production Engineer with UTAC Special Vehicles at UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground. Undertaking various Engineering roles during this time.

I’ve been a ‘Petrolhead’ from an early age, owning several sports cars and building a Westfield (similar to a Lotus 7) over a period of 7 years, although currently its sitting underneath a cover in the garage. Mechanical Watches, Photography and the creativity of cooking share interests in my life.

It’s a joy to be part of the diverse St. Andrews Family. I look forward to working with Ian Riches and both of Deputy Wardens (Michelle & Roz) to meet challenges that the Churchwarden role presents. Michelle Swales who proceeded me, will be a ‘hard act to follow’. I’m sure God will guide me in how to fill the role, to serve you all in my own way. The Lord has a plan for us all and how we can use our talents for the greater good. 

I will try to say ‘Hello’ to you all in the coming weeks, but please feel free to have a chat after the service, I welcome constructive comments.