in England, are an order of preachers in parish-churches, distinct from the rector or vicar. They are chosen by the vestry, or chief inhabitants of the parish, and are usually the afternoon preachers.

The law requires, that they have the approbation and admission of the ordinary; and that, at the time of their admission, they subscribe to the 39 articles of religion, &c. required by the statute 14 Car. II. and they are to be licensed by the bishop, like other ministers.

Where there are lectures founded by the donations of pious persons, the lecturers are appointed by the founders, without any interposition or consent of rectors of churches, &c. though with the leave and approbation of the bishop; such as that of lady Moyer, at St Paul's.

LEDGEBURY, a town of Herefordshire in England. It is a well-built town seated on a rich clay soil, and inhabited mostly by clothiers, who carry on a pretty large trade. W. Long. 2. 27. N. Lat. 52. 6.