THE Leeds Diocese of the Church of England is looking for two new priests for the Worth Valley.

It is advertising the posts for Haworth and Cross Roads and for Oxenhope.

One of these priests would replace the now departed former rector of Haworth Parish Church, Reverend Peter Mayo-Smith.

His chosen successor will minister to the congregations of the Anglican churches in the united benefice of Haworth and Cross Roads – which also takes in Stanbury.

A Church of England spokesman explained that the diocese is searching for someone who would be comfortable with a very public role, and who would be capable of building bridges between the villages, the churches, local businesses and other organisations.

The new priest would be expected to welcome the opportunity of an "international ministry", created by the fact that thousands of tourists from overseas visit Haworth.

In addition to this post, the church is advertising for a new vicar for Oxenhope Parish Church. They will replace the previous vicar, Reverend Nigel Wright, who left in autumn last year.

The closing date for applications for these two posts is February 20. Interviews for the roles are due to take place on March 6 and 7.