The parish of Bushey has welcomed a new vicar, following the ordination of Reverend Neil Kelley on Monday evening.

Reverend Kelley, who takes over from Canon Guy Buckler, was ordained at St James Church, which overlooks Bushey High Street, by the Bishop of St Albans Dr Alan Smith.

Almost 200 people gathered for the event.

The 47-year-old, who has moved from a parish in Liverpool, where he oversaw two churches, began his working life as a musician.

After graduating from the Royal College of Music in London, he worked as professional organ-player, performing at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for major events including Prince William’s christening.

But having felt a religious calling since his teenage years, he decided to forgo is career as a musician and become a vicar instead.

He studied at Westcott House, Cambridge, to become a minister, gaining experience at number of churches in London.

Reverend Kelley, who is originally from Hampshire, was then given a parish in Liverpool, where he remained for a number of years until his recent appointment to Bushey.

He said: "I felt the time was right for a move, and as I have family in the Portsmouth area, felt this was a step closer to them.

"Bushey will be a very different parish to my last one, but that is not to say it won’t be without its challenges.

"There are a lot more faiths in the town, which is due to its proximity to London, and it’s a community that is changing.

"I’m keen to get to know and work with people in the town, to support local groups, all for the greater good of the community.

"Overseeing three churches will be a challenge, but one I will relish. People will have to understand that I can’t be in three places at once, but I am looking forward to meeting residents."

Parishioners hoping to hear Reverend Kelley tinkle the ivories at the end of service will be disappointed however.

He said: "St James already has an organist so it’s unlikely I’ll be playing, but the church does have a very strong music tradition and I am keen to support that.

"I’ll be busy enough as it is - being a priest is a huge privilege, you share in people’s lives in a very special way."