Licensee swaps pub for pulpit

A licensee is set to be let loose on a different crowd of punters when he takes part in a job swap with the local vicar.

Lee Bartlett, licensee at Fuller's pub the Lord Nelson in Brentford, West London, has agreed to give a sermon at the nearby St Faith's church after being offered the chance by the Reverend Derath Durkin.

And in return she will leave the pulpit to put in a shift behind the bar.

Lee explained that the opportunity arose when the pair had a chat at the local Christmas Fair about their respective roles.

He said: "The similarities between my job and Derath's have recently become apparent.

"Although the Nelson does provide the obvious I would also like to think we offer a sympathetic ear for those in need. As a publican you have to be a good listener - same as a vicar.

"When Derath suggested the swap my initial reaction was no - but she's very persuasive.

"I'm absolutely terrified about the prospect of standing up in front of the church but also really looking forward to it."

He will give his sermon at the church on February 7 with Derath pulling pints on Saturday (January 30)

She added that both roles are important in the community and that the job swap could boost their respective congregations.

"Our roles, although in many ways diverse, with very different unique selling points, actually have many similarities. We both play our parts in the community having a pastoral and caring part to play.

"I passionately believe the church needs to get out into the community in which it serves."