ST JOSEPH'S Catholic Church, in Woodford Lane, has a new priest but Father Stephen Dwyer's unusually named dog could attract as much interest as his services.

Fr Dwyer's nine-year-old spaniel, Ryan Giggs, was a big hit at his previous home at Our Lady's Church, in Latchford, Warrington.

And parishioners at St Joseph's are already enquiring after Ryan, after hearing of the dog's starring appearances at Warrington Walking Day.

Fr Dwyer, who was the first Catholic priest to acquire a master's degree in theology from Liverpool University, has served as a priest for 20 years in a number of different areas including Wythenshawe, Macclesfield, Shrewsbury Cathedral, Bridlington and Warrington.

He said: "I'm delighted to be in Winsford. I came here only once before, 20 years ago and it was on a driving lesson with a Catholic Sister, which caused much amusement to pedestrians.

Popular

"Ryan Giggs is a popular dog and a good Catholic and people love him wherever we go - he says his prayers every day and goes to mass every Sunday."

Fr Dwyer aims to make St Joseph's an appealing place for youth in the area, and is involved in promoting Youth 2000 - a new international Catholic movement run by young people for young people.

He also makes two trips a year to Western Kenya in a missionary capacity, where he supports Fr Anthony Clarke in his work with the Luo people.

Fr Dwyer added: "I would like to thank my predecessor, Fr Peter Montgomery, for all he has achieved in building such a wonderful community and I am happy to have the chance to work with this already dynamic Christian community."

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk