LLANVAIR Discoed has welcomed its newest resident who has swapped his stetson for a dog collar.

The Reverend Dr William Ingle-Gillis, who hails from Fort Worth in Texas, is the vicar of St Mary’s Church in the Monmouthshire village.

He first arrived in the UK in 1996 with the aim of becoming ordained.

After studying Theology in London and training for the Ministry at Cambridge he was ordained in 2004.

He has preached in various other parishes before now settling in Llanvair Discoed.

Rev Ingle-Gillis said he has been impressed with the close-knit community.

"I’m enjoying being here," he said.

"It’s quite different from the city life I was used to but my family are thriving here and the countryside is beautiful."

"I always planned to come to the UK and moving to Wales was the right choice."

"The parishioners have been warm and welcoming."

His parish includes Caerwent, Shirenewton and Newchurch West.