A priest and former popstar who has appeared on some of TV’s biggest shows including Strictly Come Dancing will be making his way to Wiltshire next month.

Reverend Richard Coles first found fame in the 1980s as a part of the band The Communards, whose single ‘Don’t Leave Me This Way’ became the best-selling single of 1986.

Coles has gone on to create a career in TV and radio including being the former co-host of BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live, contributor to QI, Would I Lie to You and Have I Got News for You, dancer on Strictly Come Dancing and semi-finalist on Celebrity MasterChef. 

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Some generations know Reverend Richard for his 1980s music career, others know him for his 2017 Strictly Come Dancing appearance.Some generations know Reverend Richard for his 1980s music career, others know him for his 2017 Strictly Come Dancing appearance. (Image: PA)

On Tuesday, July 9 he will be the headline act at this year’s Marlborough College Summer School’s Gala performances where he will discuss all the weird and wonderful parts of his career, as well as his new book 'Murder at the Monastery'.

The lover of classical music, art and ceramics is frequently drawn back to the picturesque town due to its brimming history.

Speaking about his interest in the college in 2019, Coles said: “Smashing do at the Marlborough College Summer School.

“The College was founded in 1843 for the songs of clergymen, but I don’t think there can be many of them there today.”

The reverend took particular interest in the curtains hung in the hall where he spoke, which were run up by Marlburian Ambrose Heal, and also tweeted in praise of the sushi chef at the local Waitrose.

This year, his comeback appearance titled An Evening With Reverend Richard Coles will take place at 8pm at the Memorial Hall in Marlborough.

Tickets are open to all members of the public and priced at £25 per person, available on the Marlborough College website.