2006: The East Anglia District of the Methodist Church and the Church of England's Diocese of Norwich have combined forces to appoint a Rural Adviser to cover Norfolk and the Methodist District in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

 

The Revd Lorna Allies, a Church of England priest, has been appointed to keep the Church briefed on issues affecting rural areas and to advise the Church on how best to engage with the issues and offer practical help.

 

Lorna will monitor developments and proposed activities that may have a real impact on those who live in the countryside and will help Christians to reflect on the role of the Church in rural life. She will also help Church leaders to think strategically when engaging with reports and draft legislation at a national level.

 

Lorna was recently commissioned for her new role by the Chair of the East Anglia District of the Methodist Church, the Revd Graham Thompson, and the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham James.

 

The Revd Graham Thompson said: "This appointment is a significant development in the Church's ongoing commitment to the countryside and the people we seek to serve as both District and Diocese. We now have someone in place who will help us to engage more effectively with the issues and play our part in decision-making processes. Bishop Graham and I are very excited at the opportunities Lorna's appointment will create."

Pictured is Rev Lorna Allies.