CHURCH bells rang for the licensing of the Rev Mark Cannon as new parish priest for the six parishes of Tuns-tall, Melling, Leck, Wray, Tatham and Tatham Fells.

Peter Entwistle played the organ as the service at St John the Baptist, Tunstall, began with a procession up the aisle led by Bishop Geoffrey, of Lancaster, to the regal chair.

Readings were given by Reader Ann Dawson and area dean the Rev Paul Warren, of Silverdale.

Mr Warren presented Mr Cannon to the Bishop for the swearing of the Oaths of Allegiance.

Following the service refreshments were served in the village hall.