THE Meon Valley Methodists have welcomed a new minister into their circuit.

Revered Joseph Tembo will be ministering in Waltham Chase, Shirrell Heath, Hambledon, Bishop’s Waltham and Swanmore.

A sermon to welcome him and his wife Anna took place at Waltham Chase Methodist Church, led by circuit steward Stephen Freemantle.

The husband and wife come from their previous ministry in the Alfreton Methodist Circuit, Derbyshire, with their family originating from Zambia.

In common with other ministers and following the way started by John Wesley, their tenure in a particular location is not permanent.

Rev Joseph’s first service in Swanmore was in mid October when he carried out Holy Communion in the evening.

A spokesperson said: "The circuit as a whole look forward to their ministry amongst us and pray they will find their time with us a blessing both to themselves and the members and friends of our circuit."