Meet the team at St Catherine's Church, Cossall

Mrs Gillian Thornhill

Mrs Gillian Thornhill

Church Warden, Deanery Synod Rep, Treasurer
Canon Dr Christina Baxter

Canon Dr Christina Baxter

Reader, Chair of PCC
Mrs Marilyn Reed

Mrs Marilyn Reed

Planned Giving Secretary, Parish Safeguarding Officer

Working across the Benefice

Rev. Karen Hanford

Karen lives in Beeston and was ordained in 2017, having studied at St John’s College, Bramcote.  She is married to David and they have a son, Richard, who is also a Vicar.  Karen served her Curacy at St Leonard’s Wollaton and is currently Associate Minister in Stapleford. Karen joined us in March 2023.

Before ordination, Karen had worked as a Probation Officer, an Advisor with the Citizens Advice Bureau and as a Legal Secretary.

Karen and David enjoy hill walking and love heading off to the Lake District, North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales, as well as the Peak District, whenever time allows.  They enjoy setting themselves new walking challenges and have completed the Coast to Coast walk from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay and most of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Karen says: “One of the greatest joys in ministry is seeing people come to faith and also growing in faith – stepping out and doing new things in response to God’s call.  I look forward to seeing where God will lead us”

Photo of Brenda Brown

Revd Brenda Brown

Assistant Minister
Brenda was ordained as a Deacon to become a part time distinctive deacon to the parishes of Awsworth, Cossall and Trowell in July 2011. She was then fully ordained as a priest in November 2013, and continues to live in Awsworth.
Photo of Paul Whitehead

Revd Paul Whitehead

Assistant Minister
Paul joined us as assistant minister in November 2002. He is also Army chaplain (TA) to the East of England Infantry Regiment.
Click here for Paul's contact details.
Photo of Billy Nelson

Revd Billy Nelson

Retired Minister
Billy joined us as a 'retired' minister in 2005.
Click here for Billy's contact details.