Vicar Paul set to leave Oldham for Ashton after 15 years

East Oldham vicar Paul Monk

A popular vicar who has worked in Oldham for 15 years is leaving the borough to take up a similar role in Ashton.

Reverend Dr Paul Monk been Vicar of St Barnabas (Clarksfield) and Holy Trinity (Waterhead) churches for 15 years, going back to October, 2009.

Before joining those two churches he was a curate, so trainee, in Oldham Parish Church for two years.

Revd Monk said: "I am leaving Oldham to become Vicar of Ashton, and Team Rector of the Parish of the Good Shepherd, which includes the medieval gem Ashton Parish Church.

"The team also includes St Peter, St Gabriel, and St James.

"I host my last service in Oldham on Sunday afternoon, October 27, at 3pm."

Since coming to east Oldham, Revd Monk has raised almost exactly £2 million to rebuild the two churches.

That's why, in 2017, Historic England designated him a "Heritage Angel" for saving Waterhead Church for the town and for the nation.

He also set up the large "Barnabas Thrive" community program based in Clarksfield.

For example, the food pantry in the church feeds up to 180 people a week.

That's one reason why, last year, St Barnabas was awarded the coveted "Quality in Action Award" by Action Together.

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