We are delighted that the vacancy here at St Mark’s has now been filled. Rev Des Williamson retired in July 2025 and St Mark's entered a vacancy period. Throughout this time we have prayerfully and thoughtfully been in discussions with the Archdeacon and the other people involved, and achieved a solution unique to the diocese - one which we all believe is where God has been leading us.
In February Rev Nico Ohlsson, vicar of St Paul's Howell Hill with St Barnabas Epsom, was formally appointed as our Priest-in-Charge for the next 3 years. During this time Nico remains the vicar for St Paul’s Howell Hill with St Barnabas
On June 28th 2026 James Wakefield will be ordained at Guildford cathedral and then the following Sunday we will welcome him as our curate. Rev Nico Ohlsson vicar will remain Priest in Charge.
James and his wife Samantha have lived locally for over 16 years and James was brought up in the Methodist church in Nottingham. His career in law took him to the Inns of Court in London where he was appointed a KC for his work there. He will be with us here at St Mark’s during the time of his curacy, together continuing the work that Des began in the community, and building on it by sharing the hope of the gospel of Jesus with them.
We as a church look forward to warmly welcoming James and Samantha as part of the family here, and feel honoured that we have been given the privilege at St Mark’s of working with James as he begins his ordained ministry.
Read more about James’ call to ministry
Churchwardens and Church Stewards