Retired vicar is a Christmas saviour

Canon John Sykes

The retired former Vicar of Oldham stepped in to save tonight’s midnight communion service in Saddleworth’s most isolated village.

Canon John Sykes answered the SOS at Christ Church, Denshaw, after parishioners could find no one to take the service.

Since the Rev Sydney Clayton retired through ill-health and because of a shortage of clergy, local ministers have been helping out at Christ Church taking Sunday services, baptisms, weddings and funerals.

Mr Sykes (70) is also a former Vicar of Saddleworth and a Queen’s Chaplain, who retired five years ago. And he has vowed to ensure the service goes ahead.

Churchwardens Stuart Phipps and Wendy McCauley thought that everything was going well until they tried to find a vicar for the service on Christmas Eve.

To their dismay, everyone they approached had either got a prior personal commitment or where taking services in other churches.

After exhaustive inquiries,it was decided to inform disappointed parishioners the traditional service would not take place.

Mr Phipps said: “There has always been a midnight service here. It’s a very important occasion and part of our village’s Christmas celebrations. To the delight of us all, Mr Sykes offered to officiate. The churchwardens are so very grateful to him.” Wendy McCauley said: “Our joyful service will now take place at 11.30pm and everyone is welcome to come and join us.”

Said kind-hearted Mr Sykes (pictured): “Due to a change of family circumstances this Christmas, I was pleased to help out.

“It is really important to help keep the Christmas spirit alive in Denshaw.

“They have held a midnight Christmas service throughout Sydney’s 32 years and I am happy to step in.”

On Christmas Day, the Bishop of Middleton, The Right Rev Mark Davies, will be celebrant and preacher. The service starts at 10.30am.