1982 saw Brian and Ramani return to Sussex to the parish of Seaford where Brian served his title for three years, as Assistant Curate, St Leonard, Seaford, Diocese of Chichester from 1982 to 1985. A daughter, Anusha, was born in Seaford on 12th May 1983. Brian was ordained Deacon of Petertide at Chichester Cathedral in 1982 and Priest at St. Saviour, Eastbourne in 1983.

The family moved to the midland Diocese of Leicester, where from 1985 to 1989 Brian was Senior Anglican Chaplain, Loughborough University & Colleges, Diocese of Leicester - three Institutions with a population of about 15,000. While in Loughborough Ramani completed a Masters degree and Brian continued with his doctorate.

The Institution and Induction of The Rev. Brian Leathard as Vicar of the parish of St. James took place on Thursday 14th of September 1989 and Brian remained the Vicar until September 2006 when he moved on to become Rector of Chelsea: St. Luke & Christ Church.

Back in 1988 the churchwardens at the time knew what the parish wanted, someone who: possessed a high degree of spiritual leadership; supported innovative forms of worship utilising a variety of musical styles; had an ecumenical approach; endorsed our sponsorship of overseas causes and welcomed foreign visitors; encouraged the ministry of all believers and promoted, in particular, the ministry of women; would oversee the rationalisation of our properties and the re-ordering of our buildings. They felt that Brian had all these qualities, and it has indeed proved to be the case.

When Brian arrived, we were already in a process of change. A new Hall was to be built and Brian realised immediately what was needed and set about achieving his objective. The principal benefit would be in having all our activities on one site instead of three. There were alterations to the Vicarage, new cupboards were built along the South aisle for storage and our old heating system was cleverly joined up to the new boiler room in the Hall.

In the north aisle, upholstered chairs and carpet replaced the bare boards and pews. The prayer corner was made, the organ rebuilt, the large table and some pews moved to give more space at the west entrance. The stained glass windows in the chancel and the south aisle were reconstructed. It was Brian who put in hand the procedures to have the churchyard closed for burials, so that now the Council maintains it. The Park Road hedge was lowered, thus giving an open vista, and discouraging vandalism.

But the greatest change lies in the new West entrance, with its glass doors giving a view of the whole length of the church, and the ongoing life within. There is space inside to mill about and chat. Here too, is the Parish Office providing a direct contact for all; to arrange baptisms, weddings, funerals, to hire the Hall, or just to view the church. The high altar and the reconstructed East window are, quite literally, highlighted. This was Brian’s vision of opening ourselves for all to see, and join with.

In 17 years, Brian has been so many things to so many people - preacher, teacher, friend, comforter, supporter, inspirer, challenger, theologian, writer, listener, music maker, thinker, mediator, visionary, priest, scholar, friend, raconteur, counsellor, businessman and many more. He has helped many people in many ways.

He is a man of deep commitment, promoting the Christian message and, through his involvement with overseas development, he has inspired concern for the wider world. Brian considers our charitable giving to be extremely important. He is very outward-looking, seeing not only local needs but needs and injustices wherever they may be in the world. He encourages us to use our intellect and time to speak up about injustice and has never been afraid to talk to the congregation about the need for realistic giving. We have also gained from Ramani’s experience working for Christian Aid in both formal sermons and informal chats.

Brian encouraged the Action Mission Plan by involving as many people as possible to activate St. James's mission, which is: "To build the kingdom of God on earth, and particularly here in Hampton Hill". His strong belief in inclusivity encouraged the ministry of women by having two women curates during his time here. He worked with the PCC to form the Resolution 2000: "All people who respect one another and respect our church are welcome, regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, disabilities or economic circumstances."

His ability to 'speak to' everyone providing intellectual challenge with a clarity of delivery, has enabled us to achieve a deeper, clearer and more meaningful comprehension of spirituality. In management-speak 'empowerment' may be an overused word, but in the context of Brian's 17 years at St James’ it accurately describes the way in which he has sought to build up the body of Christ within the church and in the wider community. He is a very thorough, careful and prayerful person giving kind and gentle support and encouragement. By knowing people's skills and talents, followed by that all-important personal invitation, he has given many the confidence to take on roles and to contribute with remarkable effect to our common life.

Brian’s support for music means that few parish churches have the range and quality of musical activities of St. James’. He welcomed children and encouraged them to be actively involved rather than just tolerated. As a governor of the local schools, Brian chaired various panels and was a counsellor to staff and families.

His work not only as vicar for 16 years, but also as Director of Ordinands and co-ordinator of the partnership between the Diocese of London and the German Protestant Church in Berlin are the reasons the Bishop of London offered him the honour of the Prebendal Stall of Reculversland in St Paul’s Cathedral.