A FORMER bank manager is to be the new vicar of Neston.

The Rev Alan Dawson, 45, who grew up in Little Neston and Ness, was a bank manager for 20 years before training to be an Anglican priest in 2007. He was previously a curate in Hale, south Manchester.

Mr Dawson returns to the area to become vicar of the large parish which has churches in Neston, Little Neston and Parkgate.

His new role will be a ‘coming home’ experience as he was confirmed in Neston in the 1980s and was a member of Neston Youth and Social Group.

“I’m delighted to come back to this part of the world,” he said. “I find the parish in good health and I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and continuing our journey of faith.”

He paid tribute to the previous vicar, the Rev Neill Robb, who has retired after 14 years in the parish and moved with his wife Marlene to a new home near Chester.

“It’s clear that Neill was highly respected in our local community and was very well thought of indeed by church members and by the wider community,” said Mr Dawson.

“We all wish him the very best.”

Mr Dawson says he is a big sports fan who enjoys playing tennis. He is married to Karen and the couple have two children.

He will be officially installed in Neston’s parish church, St Mary and St Helen, on Wednesday, February 27, at 7.30pm. All are welcome to attend and the Rt Rev Keith Sinclair, Bishop of Birkenhead, will lead the service.