Rations of a Reverend

A NEWHAVEN vicar has been warned to give up his daily bread or meet his maker sooner than expected.

The 22st rector of St Michael's Church, the Rev Joseph Harper, embarked on a diet and fitness regime after he was told he needed to lose at least 2st in two months or face an early grave. His ultimate target weight is 18st.

Mr Harper said: 'It really all started about a month ago, I had done a wedding and I was sweating and totally exhausted. My dear wife insisted I go to the doctor. My blood pressure and heart were all right, but it was diagnosed my weight was the problem the 22st I have been carrying around.

'I listened to nurse who said, did I want to meet my maker early or did I want to be around for a few more years for the benefit of Newhaven.'

Spurred on by the revelation he vowed to slim down.

Before he began his diet the rotund reverend was starting his day with a full English fry-up, then a cooked lunch, a take-away in the evening and snacks and sweets in between. Visits to the homes of his congregation also resulted in cups of tea and cake.

But all that has now been replaced by healthier foodstuffs. Mr Harper said: 'I got a bit anxious about diabetes, heart attacks and strokes and thought "Righto here goes" and I have really cut down on all the things I did enjoy. Instead of bread I eat Ryvita, I have grilled rather than fried food and have lots of salad and fruit juice.'

Fruit has taken the place of calorie-packed puddings.

He has also taken up regular exercise and is already started shedding the pounds. 'I am swimming more and have started walking to the pier in Newhaven,' he said.

Mr Harper's diet will reap a double benefit as parishioners are sponsoring him to lose weight. All proceeds will go to the Leo House Children's Hospice Appeal for which the church has already raised more than 1,000 in the past year from fundraising. To sponsor him call 01273 515251.