A minister from Cheam has leaped a little closer to the skies by reaching the final of a national competition which will seek out the Preacher of the Year 2001'.

Martin Camroux, Minister of the Trinity United Reformed Church and Methodist Church, is up against four others a Wimbledon rabbi, an Anglican priest, a trust director and a senior chaplain.

The five competitors will take part in a preach off' on November 28 at Regent Hall in Oxford Street, organised by The Times newspaper.

Mr Camroux said: "I just think it is all quite amusing really, I like preaching so the competition seemed like a fun thing to do. You have to send in your sermon to the judges and you get through if selected."

"My sermon will be all about how we view religion in the light of the September 11 attacks."

Mr Camroux has made it into the final 20 top preachers twice before but has never got as far as the final.

This year's judging panel is made up of representatives from all different religions, including one well-known aethiest. Professor Lewis Wolpert believes religion is in our genes' but says: "I would certainly not be converted by judging this award."

The minister will be accompanied by his wife, as well as members of his congregation from the church. His two children Michael, 11, and daughter Eleanor, 13, will be eagerly awaiting the results.

The winner will receive a cash prize of £1,500 and trophy and runner-ups will get £300.

November 16, 2001 15:00