A BOLTON curate is set to take on the challenge of ministry in the Emerald Isle, just miles from the scene of recent violence.

The RevDavid Johnston, who is in his fifth year as diocesan communications officer for the Church of England in Manchester, will leave the post at the end of August to take up his new position as rector of the parish of Sixmilecross.

It means he will only be nine miles from Omagh, a town devastated by terrorist bombers, and 20 miles from Drumcree, the latest hotbed of Loyalist action following Orange Lodge marches.

But Rev Johnston, who lives in Horwich, says the region's history of violence does not worry him as he prepares to bring his pastoral skills to a new flock.

He said: "It's going to be a big challenge but I'm looking forward to spending time in pastoral work, preaching and caring for people.

"People have asked me if I'm frightened of going but there were 45 shootings in Manchester last year and nine fatalities. And it was only last year that a man drove past my front door, hanging out of a car and firing an AK47 rifle." That came as gunmen brought terror to the town as they sped through Horwich and Bolton. Three men have since been jailed in connection with the shootings.

Rev Johnston, his wife Margaret - who works as the Bishop of Bolton's secretary - and the youngest of their three daughters will leave the town in just a few weeks time.

For the past five years Rev Johnston has been the link between the region's CE churches and the media, bridging gaps between the two as huge stories broke.

And only two years ago he was ordained as curate of St Paul with Emmanuel church in Bolton.

He has overseen coverage of the St James's CE Secondary School coach crash which claimed the lives of three youngsters, as well as liaising with local press following Princess Diana's death and the aftermath of the IRA bomb in Manchester.

Rev Johnston, 48, added: "It's been a very exciting time for me but there have also been some tragic events that I have been involved with.

"I was deeply involved with the St James's school tragedy which was an extremely traumatic event for everyonme concerned, including myself.

"I have lots of friends who are journalists. It's been part of my job nnot to be afraid of the media. It's a way of getting our message across which is one of love and reconciliation.

"For us to reach as many people as possible outside the church we have to go through the media."