Guild member Brian Chester, who produces and publishes the pig industry newsletter Weekly Tribune, has been appointed as a Lay Canon in recognition of his services to the Church of England in the East Anglian diocese of St. Edmundsbury & Ipswich. He was ‘inducted’ by Bishop Nigel Stock at a special service at the Bury St. Edmunds cathedral.
Brian is a long-time member and former treasurer of the Guild, who career in agricultural journalism has included periods as news editor and political correspondent on Farmers Weekly; editor and publisher of Farm Mixer and Anglia Farmer; and editor of Pig Industry. He has also been editor of local newspaper, the Diss Express.
In his welcoming address, the Bishop said the appointment of Honorary and Lay Canons is a reason for a special celebration. It recognises the significant part played by the recipient in the every day life of his or her local church and its community.
As chairman if the Hoxne Deanery in North Suffolk, Brian has served his local church-going community for many years, noted the Bishop. He had a deep understanding of rural affairs and the challenges facing the farming community.
