Pastures New…
A well-liked figure in the church and prolific charity worker, Clitheroe vicar Rev Andy Froud is leaving the area for pastures new
The Reverend Andy Froud, well known throughout the Ribble Valley for his extensive charity work, is leaving the area for a new post as Rector of Foulridge, Laneshaw Bridge and Trawden near Colne.
Vicar of St Mary Magdalene’s Church, Clitheroe, for almost 14 years, he has also been priest-in-charge of Christ Church, Chatburn, St Leonard’s, Downham and St Paul’s, Low Moor.
He has also been chaplain at Clitheroe Hospital and to Clitheroe and Ribble Valley mayors. Speaking about his time working in the Ribble Valley, he said: “It has been the best time of my life so far. It is the longest time I have spent anywhere and I’ve loved every minute.”
Married to Beccy with four grown-up children, Rev Froud is a founding trustee of Ribble Valley Food Bank and is currently helping to set up a Heat Bank for people who are struggling with their fuel bills.
“We are talking about how we can help those people who are struggling to keep warm. We have blankets that people can pick up and we are supporting the Rotary’s Wrap Up Lancashire Appeal, whereby people can pick up coats to keep themselves warm.”
Rev Froud is also a trustee of a charity that gives people grants to help with fuel bills.
“Everyone is keen to help people get through the winter,” adds Rev Froud, who has already been in contact with schools in Laneshaw Bridge and Foulridge, in anticipation of how he can help.
“I have been talking to various heads of schools and we are currently establishing levels of need and what can be done during the fuel crisis.”
A keen cyclist, during his time in Clitheroe Rev Froud has been working alongside Phil Wade, helping people to gain confidence on the road: “Phil has been giving lessons at varying levels to help other cyclists,” he says.
“I hate to say it, but I’ll be getting an electric bike soon as the hills over in Colne are steeper than those in Clitheroe! Every time I cycle up Church Brow, I vow to get an electric bike!”
Asked if he was looking forward to his move to Laneshaw Bridge, he says: “Yes, I will really miss Clitheroe but it’s a new challenge and it’s time to give someone else a go over here. I’m originally from Yorkshire and it would seem I am gradually making my way back there.
“I have very mixed emotions about leaving Clitheroe – it’s a lovely place with amazing people.
“Everyone has been so kind. I have been so lucky to have had one of the best jobs in the Church of England!”
