The Reverend Richard Coles visited The Knights Templar School for an ‘engaging minds’ talk with Year 12 and 13 students.
The 53-year-old reverend is best known as the multi-instrumentalist who partnered Jimmy Somerville in the 1980s band the Communards. The band achieved three Top 10 hits, including the Number 1 record and best-selling single of 1986, 'Don't Leave Me This Way'. As Mr Coles pointed out yesterday, he is the “only Reverend to have a number 1 hit!”
Rev Coles has also appeared frequently on radio and television as well as in newspapers. He's been a guest on topical quiz shows like QI and Have I Got News for You. In March 2011 he became the regular host of BBC Radio 4's Saturday Live programme.
Since 2005, Rev Coles has been working for the Church of England, serving congregations from Lincolnshire to Knightsbridge in London.
Rev Coles talked to students on the day about his varied and successful career, the struggle of being a gay man in the 1980s and his commitment to the Church of England.
"During the 1980s homosexuality was a dark secret," said Rev Coles, "but today society is more open-minded. Homosexuality is now more tolerated. I feel that everyone should be more loving and supportive.”
Rev Coles enjoyed his afternoon at the school and talking to students about his experiences. “It was really nice to be here to meet and talk to so many young people. It was really enjoyable,” he concluded.