CHURCH-GOERS in Chorley will soon see new faces preaching from the pulpit.

Reverend Mary Randle has moved into the area -- having retired from the Wigan circuit to live in Coppull.

She will take occasional services in the area, but not pastoral charge in the circuit.

And she will be closely followed by Reverend Janet Clasper, who is to take over at Trinity Methodist Church, Gillibrand Walks.

Both new ministers will not officially be part of the circuit until Saturday, September 1, when a welcome service will take place at Trinity Methodist Church to show appreciation for the new ministers .

Reverend Keith Garnet, chairman of the Bolton and Rochdale methodist district, will conduct the service.

Reverend Randle said: "My husband Ian and I have chosen to retire and move to Chorley because we really love this area and its surrounding countryside which our dog Angus will also enjoy.

"I will be having a little rest for two or three months and then I will start doing some sermons in November or December to relieve other ministers."

She added: "Even though I have retired I will always be a minister and that is a role I feel privileged to have -- I will always care for people and be ready to offer guidance.

"I want to get on with people in Chorley and will try my best to mix with the community."

John Minor, superintendent minister of the Chorley methodist circuit, said: "I pleased that the Chorley congregation will benefit from enjoying new sermons from Reverend Mary Randle. I am also looking forward to Janet's colleagueship although I have to say that the current minister at Chorley Trinity, Reverend Fraser Smith, will be sadly missed.

"He has been in Chorley for the past nine years and was very well liked by his congregation."

Reverend Smith will leave Chorley this month to preach in Bolton.