New assistant priest is appointed

The Bishop of Newcastle’s announcement was made this week in the three churches, to the delight of the congregations.

The role has been vacant since Rev Ann Peters left in November 2016, and covers all three Church of England parishes of Tweedmouth (including East Ord), Spittal and Scremerston.

The post involves conducting services (including baptisms, weddings and funerals), serving the communities, and being part of the church leadership team.

Rev Macnaughton brings a wealth of experience and skills to this position.

Previously, she was vicar to St Silas, Byker, but has also been chaplaincy team leader at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, as well as assistant vicar in Wallsend and Gosforth.

She has taken time out from ministry for the last couple of years to nurse her husband Alastair, who was dying of cancer.

Vicar of the three parishes, Rev Matthew Knox, said: “This is a brilliant appointment. Diana is a very gifted person, but also very humble with it. She’s got loads of experience with people of all walks of life. She’s great at helping people know the love and relevance of God in their lives. She’s good both at the front, and also walking alongside people.”

Rev Macnaughton said: “I’m really looking forward to starting as soon as possible. I’m joining a fantastic team, not only of other ministers, but also churches that work really well together to worship God and serve their communities. I know this area well – I have visited often, as my husband and I had a house here for many years (in fact, his dad used to be vicar of Berwick). I’m excited about the future here.”