The Russian satellite Sputnik was orbiting the earth, and speaking against the new technological age the Rt Rev Cuthbert Bardsley said : “We haven’t got long to save our civilisation.”

But now, 50 years later, the latest vicar to be licensed at St Mary’s church will lead the congregation with a positive and eco-friendly mindset.

The Rev Rosemary Pantling will travel around the village and visit parishioners on her bike.

She said: “It is important to care for the world God has created by cutting down the damage we do as much as possible.

“But cycling in this case is more than about being environmentally friendly.

“It’s a great way to meet people on the street so it will help me get to know the district.”

Mrs Pantling, 47, began her duties with a special service at the church on Wednesday night, which was led by the Bishop of Warwick the Rt Rev John Stroyan.

She is a former religious education teacher who was ordained in 2001 and was previously attached to St Chad’s church in Bishop’s Tachbrook village.

The mother-of-two said: “Being a church minister is not just about being in the church building leading services - as much as I am looking forward to doing just that in the beautiful setting of St Mary’s.

“Jesus told us to love God and love our neighbours - so it’s important to get out and about and find out how the church can best serve the community.”

Parish council chairman Cliff Cleaver believes Mrs Pantling will be welcomed to the village as St Mary’s church has not had a permanent vicar since the Rev Ken Lindop moved away from the area.

Mr Lindop had led the congregation there for 27 years before he retired last February.

Coun Cleaver said: “It is nice to know that at last we have a got a new vicar in Cubbington as we have had to wait a considerable amount of time since Ken Lindop retired.

“I have met the good lady and I think she will make an excellent vicar and I am looking forward to her starting as are a good many other people in the village.

“We are also looking forward to welcoming her on behalf of the parish and the parish council.”

Coun Cleaver said he felt Mrs Pantling would bring a “new dimension” to Cubbington by cycling around the village.

He added: “My cycling days are over but I shall welcome her if she arrives at my house on her bike.”

Our picture shows the Rev Rosemary Pantling outside St Mary’s church on her bike. 08JAN116



Picture: Morris Troughton