Robin joined St Bride’s as Head Verger in 2018, moving from Suffolk where he had served three years as Verger at St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Having previously served at his family church of St Matthew, Stretford, in Manchester, Robin had joined the parish church choir at the age of 8, following in the family tradition, and proceeded to become Server, Sacristan, Master of Ceremonies and Lay Assistant. From 1995 to 2014 Robin held the full time position of Hall Manager at the St Matthew’s Hall complex using and developing his skills in building management, design, hospitality and marketing to create a centre for the wider community.
With a professional background as Architectural Technician, Robin has a keen eye for design and detail (he can be quite particular!) and brings this to his role in the church setting whether that is in the conduct of the service, the arrangement of candles, flowers, signage or the straightening of chairs.
Robin still likes to sing and draw, though now just for pleasure and, though he misses having a garden, returns to Stretford to tend the topiary in the churchyard which he started more than 30 years hence – check it out if you are passing.
With a focus on the ministry of welcome and hospitality, Robin can normally be found at the vergers’ station at the west end of the church, else up a ladder, wielding a giant duster or regaling visitors with the wonders of St Bride’s.
