77095-49SIMON Stevenette, the vicar of Christ Church in Old Town, has begun a slow return to church duties.

Father-of-five Simon, 42, who took a step back from work last July to undergo treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma, has now returned to church duties, heading services and visiting parishioners.

Although his treatment is complete, he still faces another hurdle, a scan of his chest where the cancer was found.

Simon said: "I am returning to work gradually and it feels really good to be able to play my part doing services and going out visiting. Having had time away, I now feel alive."

He is now working for a few days a week and, if the scans in May are positive, he plans to be fully back at work by the end of the year.

As a result of the treatment he has received he has been determined to show his appreciation for the staff at Swindon's Great Western Hospital.

With friends he has been involved in the setting up of a support group for haematology and oncology patients which has raised several thousand pounds for equipment.

The money has come through donations and the sale of teddy bears and mugs which can be bought for £4.50 each from Simon or from David Lilley, on 01793 520745.