Come and minister in ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ country, in the beautiful Holme Valley (parishes of Thurstonland, Hepworth & New Mill).

Our vision as the Diocese is about confident clergy equipping confident Christians to live and tell the good news of Jesus Christ.  For all our appointments we are seeking clergy who have a joyful and confident faith which has inspired a track record of church growth.

The Upper Holme Valley as a whole area (made famous through the TV series ‘Last of the Summer Wine’, which was filmed here) consists of seven parishes, which have formed a Team Ministry for many years. Following the departure of the Team Rector and one of the Team Vicars, long-standing plans for the area to be served by two stipendiary clergy were put in place, and discussions among the parishes resulted in a decision that the team ministry ought to be split into two benefices, each with its own incumbent. This results in a vacancy for an incumbent for the Eastern benefice, comprising the parishes of Thurstonland, Hepworth and New Mill.

The parishes seek a new incumbent who will embrace living in a rural community, have a friendly, outgoing and enthusiastic personality, and an ability to engage with all ages (especially children and young families). The churches value clergy with a good preaching ministry, as well as a good sense of humour.

As the next vicar, you will bring passion and skill in community engagement and congregational growth, in developing and deepening discipleship, and in encouraging stewardship and outreach. You will work collaboratively with lay leaders in the parishes, and with schools and community organisations. You will be blessed with the support of congregations that have a willingness to grow and develop, with excellent deanery colleagues, and with diocesan resource teams who are ready and willing to help.

The closing date for applications for this post is 7^th April 2026

Interviews will be held on 22^nd April 2026