I am delighted to be the new vicar of Swanland.

Little did I know when I was at Hull University studying geography (quite a few years ago!) that I would be returning to the area. Things have changed a little though; I lived in Needler Hall in Cottingham, which has since been demolished and an Aldi built on the site!

So, what else can I tell you about myself? I was born in Essex and I’ve spent most of my life so far down south. Before I was ordained, I worked as a computer programmer and project manager in London for investment banks and software companies. After training at Ridley Hall in Cambridge I did my curacy in Warwick, and then became a vicar in Kent before moving to my current post of associate minister of St Luke’s church in Cranham.

I have been married to Carolyn for 35 years. We have 3 grown up children who are all married now and living in different areas of the country. So it is just us in the vicarage – and Jess the cat. But that means there will be plenty of space to welcome visitors for coffee and cake!

We are both really looking forward to getting to know you all as we seek God’s plan together for the next step at St Barnabas.

Revd Kevin Barnard

You can watch my induction and institution service here...