A VICAR who wanted to live an adventure in paradise has made his dream a reality.

The Rev Jonathan Sewell decided to travel the world after being the father of St Mary’s Church, in Barton, for more than 12 years.

After loving life in Oxford he left in 2011 and now wakes in paradise on the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean.

Mr Sewell took charge at St Mary’s in September 1998, but always had a passion for sailing.

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Now he works as a freelance sailing instructor and has been experiencing a variety of different cultures.

Mr Sewell said: “It may be only four years since I left Barton, but it seems a lifetime ago.

“The only parish I ever loved was Barton, I’m reluctant to return to full-time work as a vicar elsewhere.

“I have so many good memories – a wonderful dog, Jet, the Oxford Operatic Society, being in the background as an extra on Lewis and the life and fun of Oxford.

“There are many sorts of ships, but the people of Barton gave me friendship and that’s worth more than any millionaire’s yacht.”

Barton resident Sue Holden said: “I’m glad to hear Jonathan is doing well.

“I got on very well with him while he was vicar and I liked his approach.

“He always had lots of activities and events on at the church for everyone to take part in throughout the community.”

Since leaving Oxford, Mr Sewell’s new lifestyle has enjoyed several perks.

Mr Sewell added: “Last week on my journey home from teaching a course to the water sports staff of Neckar Island, I was on a very fast speedboat driven by Sir Richard Branson.

“It was a bit of a brief encounter, but I introduced myself and explained that I has been teaching a VHF Radio course to his staff.”

But that’s just one of the many life experiences the reverend has had. After living in the Lake District to care for his mother Patricia, who died aged 84, Mr Sewell taught sailing in Scotland, Malta, Morocco and the Canary Islands before becoming a BVI resident.

He added: “I’ve taught sailing in Croatia, baked cakes for Harrods, worked as barman, and trained as a carer to look after my elderly parents in rural Cumbria. For a year and a half I served as a prison chaplain at three prisons, my Sunday congregation being a group of engaging murderers.

“Now the only questions I get asked is how I like my eggs for breakfast.

“Supper is usually fresh lobster grilled over an open fire.

“I’ll have to wait to see what will happen next.”