A new Rector of the Howardian Group Benefice is coming out of retirement to take up the role.

The Rev Douglas Robertson is to be the rector of St. Martin’s, Bulmer, St. Peter’s, Dalby, St. Margaret’s, Huttons Ambo, St. John the Evangelist, Welburn and All Saints, Terrington.

He will be Collated by the Bishop of Selby on Tuesday 14 March at 7.30pm in St. John the Evangelist, Welburn.

Douglas is coming out of retirement to be Rector on a half-time basis.

He said: "I’m delighted to be able to lead these five village churches, and am enjoying getting to know the communities they represent. I regard ministry to the schools in the Benefice as very important and am already involved with Terrington Church of England School, Terrington Hall and Welburn Community Primary School."

Douglas retired to Malton in November 2018, having been Vicar of Pembury in Kent from 2011. He had previously served his curacy in Rochester.

Prior to ordination in 2007 Douglas was a solicitor in the City of London, specialising in commercial property.

Douglas is married to Sue. They have two children and three grandchildren.

Douglas is Chair of the Friends of Malton Museum and is Chaplain of Castle Howard.