Gainsborough: Tributes paid to former Gainsborough curate, The Very Revd David Leaning

The Very Revd David Leaning died on Tuesday, July 28 and tributes have been paid to a “wonderful man” who was the inspiration behind major developments at Southwell Minster, such as the original development of the refectory and shop in its present building, the education centre, and the unveiling of the new Great West Window.

Educated at Keble College, Oxford, he was ordained in 1961.

He was a curate in Gainsborough at the start of his 50 year career.

David then held incumbencies in Warsop and Kington before being appointed Archdeacon of Newark.

In 1991 he became Provost of Southwell and, when the title changed on March 19, 2000, Dean of Southwell until 2006.

A former Bishop of the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham, the Rt Revd George Cassidy, worked with David, and described him as a man of prayer.

Bishop George said: “He was a counsellor and confidant to many laity and clergy and was much sought after as a mentor and spiritual director.

“David was kind, generous and thoughtful and many people were recipients of prayer cards and bookmarks on the eve of a new venture or significant occasion in their lives.

“His faithful, steady ministry in the county of Nottinghamshire saw him serve as Rector of Warsop, Archdeacon of Newark and then Provost, later Dean, of Southwell.

“His pastoral energy and foresight in the care of others brought much solace and hope in difficult situations.