Dick Parsons was thanked for his work at St Peter’s Church, The Square, by current and former churchwarden.

At the annual vestry meeting he is to be replaced by Chris Town who joins Jillie Francombe, who was elected a year ago.

They thanked Mr Parsons, saying that he had not only fulfilled his duties in a most conscientious and caring manner but he had also acted as chairman of the Fabric committee, and it was largely due to him that the church building was in good condition – although with an eight hundred year old Grade One listed building, there was always work to be done.

Mr Parsons was presented with a watercolour painting of St Peter’s by local artist, Tony New.

The church’s annual meeting followed Mr Town’s appointment and saw new members elected to the church council and finance chairman, Tony Smee, presented the accounts.

He said 2008 was likely to be a difficult year financially as major repairs were needed to the roof of the tower.