Onside in the New Year

ONSIDE FEBRUARY 6th 2009 The Bishop of Grantham

Tim Ellis, 52, is a season ticket-holder at Sheffield Wednesday and has worn his earring since he was 18.

He may not conform to the traditional stereotype of a bishop, but he says people have got used to his individual style during his previous work in the county.

Dr Ellis said: "I had the earring put in when I was 18. It's become part of me and people regard it as part of my personality. I literally never take it off.

"The interesting thing is most people don't react to it at all. It's actually people outside the church who find it surprising and, surprisingly, young people too.

"I also wear a Make Poverty History bracelet, which makes a very serious point about the poor of the world. We have the wherewithal and power to rid the world of poverty and starvation and hunger.

"Of the two pieces of jewellery I wear, that is the one I'd like people to focus on."

Dr Ellis said: "Our churches are largely empty of young people at the moment, but they are our lifeblood and can stir us into new life. We have much to learn about life from the young.

"I hope we can help the Church of England in south Lincolnshire into the premier league."