A light-hearted survey of some of the more unusual characters to hold ecclesiastical office in the Diocese of Exeter. Using papers from the Cathedral Archive and the County Record Office, Paul Evans, who is giving the lecture, explores the lives some of Devon's clergy who have not merely erred and strayed from the social, cultural and liturgical norms of the Church of England, but also those who naughtily followed the devices and desires of their own hearts. From Bishops to unbeneficed preachers (sometimes not without reason), this lecture aims to explore a broad and colourful tapestry of ecclesiastical eccentrics.

Paul Evans holds a PhD in British Constitutional History. He has been a tutor at the University of Nottingham, a visiting lecturer at the University of Richmond, and a lecturer in a swanky private college in South Kensington. When not playing the piano or singing seventeenth century catches, he finds time to scribble enthusiastically on the topic of the English eccentric.

The lectures are OPEN TO ALL and admission is FREE (there is a voluntary retiring collection). They are followed by discussion and light refreshments. For further information, or if you require disabled access, please do not hesitate to contact David Beadle at dnb201@ex.ac.uk or visit www.stmichaelsmountdinham.org.uk