Rev Barry Welch has been actively involved in the life of Trinity Church in Ashington, St. Andrew's & St. Mark's Church in Newbiggin and Widdrington Methodist Church in Northumberland, as well as being President of the South East Northumberland Ecumenical Area.

He is particularly passionate to work within a Local Ecumenical Partnership, which is why he was drawn to St. Andrew's. He hopes to help us embrace our vision as we enter into a new phase in the life of the church.

He grew up in London which is why he is a life-long hammers fan, "I'm forever blowing bubbles..." and relaxes by reading, trying to learn Italian, watching sport and finding a quiet place.