Rev. John Doble

Mr. Doble is remembered as a man who 'cared' for his flock. He was quick to respond when 'crises' arose, even returning from holiday, and several who experienced bereavement found him devoted in his support.

He made an important change to the leadership of the church with the appointment of elders. He chose three from the existing diaconate, and there have been both elders and deacons to lead the church ever since.

In the 1980s 'Mums and Toddlers' began, an opportunity for mothers with small children to meet one afternoon a week was eagerly taken up and has and is proving itself attractive to many not otherwise connected with the church. 'Hand of Friendship' now the 'Friendship Centre' was also started at this time.

Missionary activity continued with 26 going into missionary work at home or abroad from the church. In October 1982 Mr. Doble announced his retirement and moved to Devon to set up the U.K. Headquarters of Middle East Media for whom his eldest daughter was working in Cairo.