FORGET the biscuits when you invite the new vicar from Saint James' in Preston for tea - offer her a Mars Bar instead!

As sweet-toothed Reverend Anne Brookfield confessed: "I'm renowned for my love of classical music, cats and Mars Bars!"

Kind-hearted Anne, owns three cats - all of whom started their lives as strays.

"They are called Sooty, Smudge and Dusky. I've had Sooty for about 12 years and the other two just arrived on my doorstep a few years later!

"All are so affectionate although I must admit Smudge, a ginger tabby, tends to dominate me. She likes to sleep in the airing cupboard too," said Anne.

When asked about her love of classical music, gleefully singing his praises, Anne, replied: "I simply worship and adore Jose Carreras! He's wonderful!

"As I was waiting to do a funeral at my local crematorium I read an article about Jose and the treatment he had to endure for cancer. From that day my emotions were stirred by Jose, and I've admired him ever since."

Anne also admitted that given an appropriate time she wouldn't mind raising the roof of her church with one of Jose's many songs.

She said: "I think Jose has a God-given heavenly voice."

Mother-of-two, Anne, 45, is currently the Senior Curate at Saint Stephen with Saint Aidan in Acomb, York.

She will be licensed at Saint James' on October 4, where she will fulfil the role of Team Vicar designate, as the former separate parishes of Saint Mary, Saint James, and Saint Matthew with Saint Hilda and Acregate are in the process of being joined.

Anne added: "I'm looking forward to joining the team. I believe strongly in joint leadership of a church, men and women, clergy and other church members. It is important we work as a team together.

"I am keen on all aspects of parish work, but, having been bereaved myself, losing my husband 17 years ago, my mother 16 years ago and many other close friends and relations, I have a particular concern for the bereaved and the work of the Hospice movement as I can share my own understanding."

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