Ilkley's new vicar told today how bringing up his tragic baby daughter, who died last week, had helped strengthen his faith.

The Reverend Paul Tudge is to be licensed as the vicar of All Saints tonight, just three days after his 18-month-old daughter Iona's funeral.

Iona was born with Edwards' Syndrome - a rare life-threatening chromosomal disorder which meant she developed much slower than other children.

Mr Tudge, who comes to Ilkley from Horsforth where he was vicar of St James's, Woodside, said: "We knew Iona would not be with us forever but didn't realise her death would be so soon. People were just getting to know her here.''

But the vicar, who is married to Rosie and has three other children - Luke, 16, Ruth, 15, and Simon, 11 - said bringing up Iona had been a very rewarding experience.

He added: "She has helped strengthen my faith and she has helped us live much more day to day and appreciate that everybody has a lot to offer.''

Mr Tudge is being licensed by the Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend David Smith, at All Saints Church at 7.30 this evening.

Looking forward to his new post, he said: "In my previous job I inherited a very small church. At Ilkley I'm inheriting a thriving church that will have different problems and different things to enjoy.

"I'm really looking forward to working with a good team of clergy and lay readers.''

The former science teacher graduated from Leeds University, studied theology at Carnmer Hall, Durham, and was priested in 1987, serving his curacy at Leeds Parish Church.

The new Deputy Lord Mayor and Deputy Lady Mayoress of Bradford - who were being chosen today - will attend the installation at All Saints tonight.

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