Features: This Life, Maureen Read, parish priest of Meltham

Apr 12 2010 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

LIVES: Meltham.

OCCUPATION: Parish priest for Meltham.

MARRIED: To John.

CHILDREN: Two grown up children, a son and a daughter, and four young grandchildren.

HOBBIES: Gardening and walking, so living in Meltham is ideal for enjoying the local countryside.

What was the last movie you watched at the cinema? I went with a group from my last Parish in Heywood, Manchester, to see Calendar Girls. We laughed so much and the phrase ‘I need bigger buns’ still raises a smile.

Which TV programme is your all-time favourite? The Vicar of Dibley is brilliant! Beneath the humour there were often important hidden messages for both the Church and our society. Geraldine opened up a new image of female clergy, although thankfully, we’re not all like her.

What makes you laugh? Before I came into the Church as a full-time parish priest I was a teacher for over 20 years. I loved my work and was often surprised by the things children said, often in all innocence. My grandchildren now carry this on being seven, five, three and one. They always make me laugh with the things they say.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? John and I love the Greek Islands, the smaller the better. We’ve spent many happy holidays enjoying their relaxed way of life and of course the wonderful sunshine.

On a personal note, what is your best quality? I love people. Each one of us is quite unique. I take great pleasure from finding out what makes us tick.

..and sorry, we have to ask, what is your worst fault or bad habit? I find it very hard to say, ‘No’, so sometimes I take too much on.

What is your favourite local shop? If ever you need anything there is only one shop you need to try in Meltham, that’s the Crossroads Shop. It is a charity shop run by volunteers from all the churches in Meltham.

How do you normally spend Christmas and New Year? Obviously in the Church Christmas is a very busy time preparing for Carol Services and school nativities. We have a service for the Parish at midnight on Christmas Eve and then throughout Christmas morning. John cooks Christmas dinner where we are joined by Philip, Joanne, Joshua and Sophia, Alison, Kieron, Daniel and Luke. John and I have started to spend New Year with all four grandchildren so that their parents can go out. I remember my mum and dad doing the same for us many years ago!

What is the last luxury item you bought for yourself? The Vicar of Meltham is also the President of the local Gilbert and Sullivan Society. I don’t often wear dresses so as a treat I bought myself a new one from Monsoon in Huddersfield for the final performance of ‘Yeoman of the Guard’ in November.

What is the most important thing in your life today? Family – my own family and my church family.