Bernard & Kitty Houghton

Bernard Houghton was the one of The Vicars of St.John's Lacey Green

Bernard & Kitty Houghton came to Lacey Green in 1961, staying until 1981.

They lived at the Vicarage, later called Lacey House when a new Vicarage was built.

Kitty ran The Mothers Union and The Young Wives

Hallmark June 1981. A Great Farewell, but a sad departure by Ted Janes Hallmark editor

I went to the farewell party for the Reverend and Mrs Houghton, and as always when I go to any of our village functions I marvel how well we do things. This farewell was no exception. The cake made by Rosemary Oliver was in the shape of an open bible with inscription in icing, such a work of art that it was a shame to cut it. A cheque for £465 was presented to the vicar, and in a speech of thanks he recalled his happy 20 years in the Parish, his successes and disappointments.

Not being a member of his flock, I know nothing of his ecclesiastical merits or shortcomings, but I do know that I feel I have lost a friend, a man who, particularly in the last few years, wasn't physically able, but always conscious that a vicar should be interested, involved and offering leadership in Parish affairs.