Andrew Southerden, The Coach & Horses, Kibworth, Leicester

A pub Partner and a vicar are taking part in a job-swap to help bring the community closer together.

Punch Taverns’ Partner Andrew Southerden from The Coach & Horses will be trading places with Reverend Ludgar Fremmer from St Wilfrid’s Church in Kibworth, Leceister.

On 18 April, Andrew will be delivering the Sunday Sermon, while Ludgar will be serving food and drink at The Coach & Horses in exchange.

This quirky idea was suggested to Partner Andrew, who has been at the pub for 18 months, by a customer.  The change of roles aims to boost the number of people visiting the church and pub and bring the community closer together.

Andrew commented: "Being a landlord and a vicar are similar in many ways. We listen to people's troubles, help with wedding celebrations and funerals, and we raise money for people less fortunate than us.

"As a result of the swap, I hope more people from St Wilfrid's come to the Coach and Horses and vice versa."

Punch Taverns’ regional operations director, Giles Kendall adds: “This is an excellent idea and really demonstrates how pubs are at the heart of the communities they serve. Well done Andrew!”

Andrew will serve the Sunday Sermon at 10am and Ludgar will be serving the local punters between 1pm and 3pm. The Coach & Horses pub offers traditional fine food and drink in a picturesque setting.