Rev. Ian joined us on 1st September 2025. and is living in the Manse in Highworth. 

He grew up in Southampton and after studying law at university went to work for Bethany Christian Trust in Edinburgh, supporting people who were homeless or long-term unemployed.

He trained for Methodist ministry at Queen's College, Birmingham, which included a term at a seminary in South India where he learnt more about mission and ministry in a multi-faith context.

For the last 18 years he has been a member of the Benedictine Community at Mucknell Abbey near Worcester,

He is looking forward to fulfilling the role as a Circuit Minister as well as returning each week to the Abbey.

One or two of them are always on duty at the Sunday services and they also lead services from time to time.

Gill Griffiths and Louise Sheppard have agreed to be the contact-point for the stewards - you can reach them at stewards@rwbmc.co.uk or fill in the contact form here.

On 29^th August we welcomed Rev. Tony Brookes, as our new Minister and Superintendent for the Upper Thames Circuit wef 1^st September, with a special Welcome Service conducted by Chairman of Bristol District, Rev. Dr. Marcus Torchon.

Rev. Tony is pictured here (centre) at his Welcome Service with Rev. Dr. Marcus Torchon (right) and Rev. Ian Mead. 

Rev. Tony has succeeded Rev. Shirlyn Toppin who has moved to her new appointment in Leicester. We wish to thank Shirlyn for her faithful service with us during the past 5 years and pray God's richest blessings upon her in her new calling in Leicester. 

BIOGRAPHY AND PODCAST

Rev. Tony has prepared a brief biography as a means of introduction - click here to view it. 

Church member, Ian, met with Rev. Tony and they have produced an audio podcast in which Tony shares about his ministry journey and how he was led to Royal Wootton Bassett. It can be found here. It is planned to produce further podcasts in the future.