A VICAR from Farnham has been appointed the Diocese of Guildford’s first ever diocesan environmental advisor.

Reverend Lesley Crawley from the parish of Badshot Lea and Hale will work with a team to lead a programme of action and to raise awareness of environmental issues and climate change across the diocese.

This will include launching ‘Eco-church’ to offer parishes simple and measurable ways to make a difference to the environment.

Rev Crawley said: “I am really excited about the opportunities for environmental action in our diocese; I feel the church has a key role in creating a future that is sustainable.

“I have heard so many stories of hope recently, I think the tide is changing and believe we as Christians will have a significant impact for good in our local communities and in our nation.”

Events planned for 2016 include an environmental conference at Guildford Cathedral on Tuesday, February 9, and a competition for the most environmentally-friendly churchyard, with the winner to receive a yew tree planted by the Bishop of Guildford, Andrew Watson.

Rev Crawley is also asking for help, and added: “I am the rector of a busy parish and so I don’t have much spare time. We are hoping to create networks of people who are interested in working to towards a green Guildford Diocese. Please contact me if you can help in any way.”

For more information or to volunteer, call Rev Crawley on 01252 820537 or alternatively email [email protected].