Hello!

It's my delight to greet you as your new vicar. My name is Claire Gibbs. I was licensed at a very joyful service at St Cuthbert's Etherley on 10th March. I will be serving the parishes of Escomb, Etherley, Witton le Wear and Hamsterley. Whether you're Christian or not, and of whatever denomination, I am here for you. I look forward to getting to know the area and its communities. Do introduce yourself if you see me around.

I will be moving to the Vicarage in Witton Park in the summer, once my family are free of school exams. Until then I will be commuting back and forth from Teesside. I will be serving the parish alongside another role (two days a week) of Creation Care Officer for the diocese (region) of Durham. I'll be supporting and resourcing churches and CofE schools in caring for Creation as part of our Christian faith.

A bit about me:

I'm 47, married, with two older teenagers. My husband Paul is a software engineer. We love climbing, walking, our two cats and being outdoors. Also curry, films, and the occasional bottle of wine.

I originally trained in archaeology and worked as a museum education officer at Bede's World Museum, Jarrow. I'm creative - something of a serial hobbyist but my main loves are pottery (throwing on a wheel), sewing, and celtic illumination, knotwork and bookbinding.

I'm also a keen gardener. When I have time (!)

You live in a beautiful part of the world, and are blessed with very enthusiastic, committed and active church communities. I am excited to joining with them as we serve God and community together.

If you'd like me to come to a community group or organisation, to meet you and learn about our community, do give me a call on

07902 745280 or email [email protected] or contact me as Claire TheVicar on Facebook.

Blessings,

Claire