Fr Stuart Tanswell
Fr Stuart was born in Reading, Berkshire. After a degree in Cybernetics and Computer Science from the University of Reading, and a career in IT support and consultancy, he trained for ordination at Ripon College Cuddesdon and spent time on exchange at the College of the Transfiguration, Grahamstown.
Fr Stuart was ordained deacon at Truro Cathedral in 2008, and priest at the parish church of Ss Cyriacus and Julitta, Luxulyan, in 2009 - serving a curacy in the parishes of St Blazey, Luxulyan, and Tywardreath between 2008 and 2011. From 2011 until 2018 Fr Stuart was vicar in the parish of St John the Evangelist, North Holmwood, in the Diocese of Guildford.
Fr Stuart arrived at Vale Church in April 2018 and has been Rector since 14th July 2018. In addition to his duties in the parish he is a member of the Sodality of Mary, Mother of Priests, a Priest Associate of the Holy House at Walsingham, an Oblate of Alton Abbey, and is also involved with the London clergy branch of On Fire Mission (an Anglo-Catholic and charismatic organisation). Outside of church, Stuart is interested in music (playing various instruments), technology, and football (being a long-suffering Reading fan).
Fr Stuart is married to Natalie (a fellow Reading FC fan), and they have a daughter, Bridget. You can find out more about Natalie, Bridget, and Fr Stuart at their family website.