A new rectory is vital for the village of Ashwell, according to members of St Mary’s Church.

Proposals have been submitted to North Herts District Council for a four-room building that would serve as a rectory for the Grade I-listed church.

Rev Robert Evens, who is due to take up the post of rector in April, said: “I was born and brought up in Baldock and, in agreeing to take up the post of rector, it felt like coming home. However, the current rectory causes us both considerable alarm.

“There is no adequate office or meeting place, and neither does it provide any confidentiality for parishioners visiting me or privacy for my wife.”

A spokesman for the church said: “The rectory is important to the life of the church and the village and your views on the application are very important.”

The consultation period runs until February 19.