The new vicar of the oldest church in Cranham is looking forward to working closely with the community to make the most of her new position.

Romford Recorder: Inside All Saints Church. Picture: Melissa PageInside All Saints Church. Picture: Melissa Page (Image: Archant)

The Rev Marion Williams became the priest in charge of All Saints Church, in The Chase, Cranham on September 18, but the 60-year-old is not a new face to the congregation.

She has been running the picturesque 13th century church since her predecessor died three years ago.

At the time, she had just begun her training as a curate, which came to an end this month.

She was installed by the Bishop of Barking in a service where she had to ring a bell the number of years she thought she would stay with the parish.

Romford Recorder: Rev Marion Williams is the new priest in charge of All Saints Church. Picture: Melissa PageRev Marion Williams is the new priest in charge of All Saints Church. Picture: Melissa Page (Image: Archant)

She rang seven times.

Rev Williams describes herself as a “self-supporting priest”, and holds a paying job as chaplain to a hospice in Hounslow.

She has plenty lined up for the church, including hosting an exhibition of school children’s art.

She said: “It’s a really friendly church with a lot of hospitality and laughter. We’re here for you.

“My real passion is funerals. It’s the last thing you can do for someone. I like to make sure it’s done well.”

But she added she is most looking forward to working with the people of Cranham, inside and outside the church.